Yesterday’s (Sept. 9th) defeat of Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee by Helena Foulkes in the Democratic primary was the first time a gov. lost renomination since 2018, when Jeff Colyer — who became governor of Kansas following the resignation of Sam Brownback — was defeated in the GOP primary by Kris Kobach. Kobach then went on to lose to Democrat Laura Kelly.
Foulkes’ grandfather was Thomas Dodd, the former Connecticut senator. Her uncle is Chris Dodd, Tom’s son, who also served as senator.
The Republican primary, between Aaron Guckian and Elaine Pelino, remains too close to call.
Also losing yesterday was Providence Mayor Brett Smiley, who was beaten by democratic socialist David Morales, endorsed by Bernie Sanders.