News Summary
Former CVS Health executive Helena Foulkes has officially launched her second campaign for governor of Rhode Island, challenging incumbent Governor Dan McKee in the Democratic primary. Foulkes, who previously placed a close second to McKee in the 2022 primary, emphasizes the need for change amid rising costs affecting residents. She has outlined key priorities and criticized McKee’s handling of economic issues, particularly concerning housing and infrastructure. As the race develops, Foulkes will need to counter a renewed focus on her past experience at CVS and its implications.
Providence, Rhode Island – Former CVS Health executive Helena Foulkes officially launched her second campaign for governor of Rhode Island on Tuesday, challenging incumbent Governor Dan McKee in the upcoming Democratic primary. Foulkes previously finished a close second to McKee in the 2022 primary, marking her first attempt at statewide office.
In her announcement, Foulkes expressed her belief that Rhode Island residents are “getting squeezed” by rising costs related to housing, groceries, and utilities. The former executive criticized the state’s current leadership for failing to adequately address these pressing economic issues and emphasized the need for change. McKee is seeking a second full term after ascending to the governor’s office in 2021 when he succeeded Gina Raimondo, who was appointed as U.S. Commerce Secretary.
The competition in the Democratic primary is expected to intensify, as Foulkes aims to capitalize on the late momentum she gathered during the previous primary campaign. Her 2022 candidacy gained traction, especially following a last-minute endorsement from an influential editorial board. However, the McKee campaign has responded to her candidacy by challenging her record at CVS Health, where they accused her of contributing to the opioid crisis during her tenure.
Foulkes has countered this criticism by asserting that under her leadership, there was a notable decrease in the amount of opioids dispensed by the pharmacy giant. CVS has also defended Foulkes, deeming it inappropriate for political opponents to leverage the opioid issue for electoral gain.
In her campaign, Foulkes has outlined several key priorities including increased funding for the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA), improving public education, addressing the housing crisis, and resolving the ongoing doctor shortage in the state. She has also criticized McKee for his handling of infrastructure issues, particularly the protracted closure of the Washington Bridge, which was originally set to be completed by 2026 but has now been delayed until late 2028 due to a lack of contractor bids.
Foulkes highlighted the recent loss of Hasbro’s headquarters in Pawtucket as another example of McKee’s inability to retain businesses in the state, further bolstering her argument for change in leadership. Foulkes referenced her previous loss in the primary, acknowledging the emotional toll it took on her and indicating that the state deserves new leadership to navigate its challenges effectively.
While Foulkes and McKee are currently focused on their campaign battle, there is also speculation about other potential entrants into the race, including House Speaker Joseph Shekarchi. Shekarchi has yet to announce his decision regarding a gubernatorial run and is reportedly equipped with nearly $4 million in campaign funds, which surpasses both Foulkes’ $2 million and McKee’s less than $900,000.
As the race progresses, the Rhode Island Republican Party has also weighed in, criticizing Foulkes and referring to her corporate experience in leadership roles as more of a warning than an asset. Moving forward, Foulkes will need to present concrete plans addressing key issues in housing, health care, and education if she hopes to gain traction with voters in the lead-up to the primary.
The political landscape in Rhode Island is shaping up to be dynamic as the primary date approaches, with candidates vying for solutions to the economic pressures facing residents. As the campaign unfolds, discussions will likely center on Foulkes’ past experiences at CVS and the implications of the ongoing federal lawsuit regarding the company’s role in the opioid epidemic, providing the context for the challenges each candidate will face in the election.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Matthew McDermott Announces Candidacy for Providence City Council
Rhode Island Senate Leadership Race Heats Up Amid Tensions
Helena Foulkes Announces Second Run for Governor
Roam Loud Gains Momentum in Rhode Island’s Activewear Scene
Federal Reserve Chairman to Speak at Economic Outlook Luncheon
Jewelry Designer and Former Naval Officer Fred Barrows Passes Away
Rhode Island Issues Hurricane Erin Safety Warnings
Providence Faces Competitive Election for Ward 2 City Council Seat
Rhode Island Officials Seek to Relocate Connecticut Sun
Rhode Island Plate Wins Best Plate of 2024
Additional Resources
- Providence Journal: Helena Foulkes Launches Bid
- AP News: Helena Foulkes Gubernatorial Announcement
- Turn to 10: Foulkes Announcement in Providence
- Boston Globe: Foulkes vs. McKee in Governor Race
- What’s Up Newp: Foulkes Announces for Governor
- Wikipedia: Helena Foulkes
- Google Search: Helena Foulkes Rhode Island
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rhode Island
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
