Who Is Running for Governor of Rhode Island in 2026?

Dan McKee prioritizes job creation and economic development, proposing a $600 million bond for infrastructure investments in areas like business, higher education, and housing. He advocates for a $115 million economic development bond to expand maritime, defense, and life sciences industries, aiming to attract advanced manufacturers and create jobs. His administration has overseen the addition of over 36,000 private sector jobs, emphasizing "prevailing-wage union jobs" to support families and protect the economy. He also supports tax cuts as part of an "Affordability for All" agenda.

Governor Dan McKee opposes Republican cuts to health and nutrition benefits, proposing to double the state grant for the Rhode Island Community Food Bank and increase funding for Planned Parenthood. He criticizes Congressional Republicans for allowing Affordable Care Act tax credits to expire, increasing health insurance costs. His budget includes a $9.5 million Marketplace Affordability program to support 20,000 Rhode Islanders at risk of losing coverage, aiming to make healthcare more accessible and affordable.

Research pending more substantial sources.

Governor Dan McKee supports education, highlighting historic investments in K-12 through the Learn365RI initiative, including 21 Community Learning Centers. His administration has reduced chronic absenteeism via the Attendance Matters initiative and states Rhode Island leads New England in academic recovery from the pandemic. McKee aims to create opportunities for children and has closed the achievement gap with Massachusetts in reading and math.