Rhode Island’s political scene saw a significant shift as Governor Dan McKee lost the Democratic primary to businesswoman Helena Foulkes. This marks the first time since 2018 that a sitting governor has been denied the party’s nomination.

Helena Foulkes, with a background as an executive at CVS Health and currently a board member at Costco, overcame McKee in a rematch from their tight 2022 primary. During that contest, McKee had won by a slight margin. However, in this 2026 match-up, Foulkes emerged victorious.

McKee assumed the role of governor in 2021, following Gina Raimondo’s departure to join the Biden administration as Commerce Secretary. Prior to this, McKee, former mayor of Cumberland and a two-term lieutenant governor, secured a full term in 2022 after triumphing over Foulkes and others in a crowded Democratic primary.

The parallel event comes from Kansas, where Republican Governor Jeff Colyer lost the 2018 primary to Kris Kobach, supported by Donald Trump, by under 400 votes.

Helena Buonanno Foulkes, experienced in the private sector, previously led the Hudson’s Bay Company and held a senior executive role at CVS. Her 2026 campaign marks her second attempt at political office, following her near-miss in 2022 against McKee.

The primary rematch emphasized their divergent records and leadership claims. Foulkes pointed to McKee’s handling of state affairs, such as the Washington Bridge’s sudden closure due to structural issues, which has remained under repair. Meanwhile, McKee defended his record while critiquing Foulkes’ corporate leadership at CVS, especially concerning the opioid controversy.

Looking forward, Foulkes appears well-positioned for the November general election, facing the winner of the Republican primary between former lieutenant governor nominee Aaron Guckian and retired executive Elaine Pelino.

Alec Schemmel, the article’s reporter, resides in the Washington D.C.-Baltimore area, with origins in Charlotte, North Carolina.