Rhode Island’s Democratic governor loses primary amid anger over bridge

Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee lost his Democratic primary to Helena Foulkes, a former CVS executive. Foulkes's victory, a rare occurrence for a sitting governor, was largely attributed to voter frustration over McKee's handling of the Providence Washington Bridge repairs. The bridge, a critical traffic artery, was closed in December 2023 due to structural issues, and its rebuilding is now projected to be completed in 2028, a significant delay from initial estimates. Foulkes criticized McKee's management of the project during her campaign. McKee conceded and pledged to support Foulkes in the November general election, where she is considered to have a strong advantage in the heavily Democratic state.

Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee faces a primary challenge from Helena Foulkes, whom he defeated four years ago. Foulkes, a former CVS Health executive, has outraised the incumbent and is leveraging voter dissatisfaction, particularly concerning the prolonged and costly repairs of the Washington Bridge. The bridge's partial closure in 2023 due to a critical failure has caused significant regional disruption, providing Foulkes with ample material to criticize McKee's leadership. McKee defends his actions by emphasizing public safety and projecting a completion date of 2028 for the bridge repairs. McKee has also attacked Foulkes' corporate background, accusing her of prioritizing profits, while Foulkes counters by highlighting her role in reducing opioid dispersal at CVS and warning against attacks on the company. The winner of the September 9th primary is expected to be the favorite in the general election.