CUMBERLAND – In a reversal from four years ago, the Cumberland Democratic Town Committee has endorsed Helena Foulkes over former mayor and incumbent Gov. Dan McKee. See the two make their pitches below.
Following months of candidate forums, town committee visits, and discussions with Democratic candidates from across Rhode Island, the Cumberland Democratic Town Committee voted Monday evening to endorse candidates in several key statewide and legislative races.
Committee members voted overwhelmingly to endorse Foulkes.
“The Cumberland Democratic Town Committee takes its endorsement responsibility seriously,” said First Vice Chairperson Lisa Beaulieu. “Our members carefully considered who is best equipped to lead Rhode Island through the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. We believe Rhode Islanders deserve a governor with the vision, energy, critical thinking skills, and executive experience necessary to navigate increasingly complex issues and deliver meaningful results.”
“Helena Foulkes earned overwhelming support from our Committee because she has demonstrated the leadership qualities we are looking for in our next governor,” she added. “She understands that Rhode Islanders expect more than promises, they expect progress. Whether it’s strengthening our economy, improving public services, addressing infrastructure challenges, or making Rhode Island more competitive, Helena has shown she has both the experience and the drive to move our state forward.”
McKee previously earned the committee’s support, and they respect his years of public service, said Beaulieu.
“However, many members felt Rhode Island needs a change in leadership and a renewed sense of urgency,” she said. “Recent controversies and challenges facing state government have only reinforced our members’ belief that Rhode Island needs new leadership and a greater sense of urgency. We believe Helena Foulkes is the candidate best prepared to meet this moment and help put Rhode Island on a stronger path for the future.”
The committee endorsed U.S. Senator Jack Reed, U.S. Congressman Gabe Amo, Secretary of State Gregg Amore, and General Treasurer James Diossa.
“Our members were united in their support for Senator Jack Reed, Congressman Gabe Amo, Secretary of State Gregg Amore, and General Treasurer James Diossa,” said Cumberland Democratic Town Committee Chairperson Tom Kane. “Each has demonstrated a commitment to public service and has consistently delivered results for Rhode Islanders.”
The committee also voted to endorse Newport City Councilor Xay Khamsyvoravong for lieutenant governor.
“Xay Khamsyvoravong impressed our members with his energy, vision, and commitment to public service,” said Committee Secretary Stephanie Gemski. “He brings a fresh perspective to state government and has shown a remarkable ability to connect with voters from every corner of Rhode Island. We believe he will be a strong advocate for Rhode Islanders and an outstanding lieutenant governor.”
Second Vice Chairperson Raymond Salvatore highlighted the committee’s support for local legislative leaders and candidates.
“The Cumberland Democratic Town Committee proudly endorsed Rep. Brandon Voas and Seb. Ryan Pearson for re-election,” Salvatore said. “Both have been effective advocates for Cumberland and have delivered meaningful results for our community.”
The committee also voted to endorse Sen. Brian Thompson, Rep. Mia Ackerman, Rep.Alex Marszalkowski, and Rep. Robert Philips, he said, “each of whom has earned the confidence and support of our members through their commitment to public service and their dedication to the communities they serve.”
The committee also voted overwhelmingly to endorse Keith Hoffmann for attorney general.
“Keith Hoffmann stood out because of his experience, his record, and his vision for the future of Rhode Island,” said Treasurer Bob Shaw. “As a senior leader in the attorney general’s office, Keith helped lead efforts that took on Donald Trump and won. He has spent his career protecting Rhode Islanders, standing up to Donald Trump’s unlawful policies and actions, fighting to ensure access to affordable healthcare, led successful efforts to strengthen enforcement of Rhode Island’s lead safety laws, and our public safety. Our members believe he is uniquely qualified to serve as Rhode Island’s next attorney general.”
Chairperson Tom Kane thanked all of candidates who participated in the committee’s endorsement process.
“The Cumberland Democratic Town Committee has been fortunate to hear from an exceptional group of candidates over the course of this endorsement cycle,” Kane said. “I want to thank every candidate who visited our Committee, answered questions from our members, and shared their ideas for Rhode Island’s future. Our endorsement process is strongest when candidates engage directly with local Democrats, and we appreciate the time and effort each of them invested in that process.”
