Incumbent Rhode Island governor projected to lose Democratic primary to former CVS executive

September 9, 2026 / 8:35 PM EDT / CBS News

Former CVS executive Helena Foulkes defeated Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee in the Democratic primary on Wednesday night, The Associated Press projects.

With roughly half of all votes counted at around 8:30 p.m. ET, Foulkes led McKee 62.3% to 37.7%.

Rhode Island is a reliably Democratic state, and hasn't elected a Republican statewide since 2006, making Foulkes the favorite to win in November. Aaron Guckian and Elaine Pelino are facing off for the Republican nomination.

McKee is the first sitting governor anywhere in the country to lose a primary in eight years. McKee, previously the lieutenant governor, was elevated to the top job after former Gov. Gina Raimondo became commerce secretary during the Biden administration. He was elected for a full term in 2022 and has served as governor for five years.

McKee's first full term has been plagued by the closure of the Washington Bridge, which was shut down in December 2023 after broken anchor rods were discovered. Rebuilding the bridge — a crucial link between the state capital of Providence and its eastern suburbs — is now estimated to cost $427 million and is scheduled to be completed…

Original source: https://www.cbsnews.com/entertainment/