New poll shows McKee lagging behind Foulkes, Shekarchi in ’26 primary

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee is looking at steep uphill battle in his 2026 re-election bid, according to data from the University of New Hampshire.

The poll found that McKee has a disapproval rating of 72 percent, including 47 percent of voters who “strongly disapprove” of the incumbent’s performance.

11 percent of Democrats rank McKee as their first choice in a primary.

This represents a slip of 8 percent since September.

Rhode Island House Speaker Joe Shekarchi’s name has made the primary potential list, according to UNH.

In a three-way primary match-up between McKee, Shekarchi and candidate Helena Foulkes, 29 percent of Democrats picked Foulkes.

13 percent of Democrats chose Shekarchi.

The numbers could always shift according to numerous factors, including Shekarchi passing on a bid for the nomination.

Should the Speaker opt out of the race, 38 percent of Democrats said they would cast their vote for Foulkes, with McKee coming in at 12 percent.

42 percent of potential primary voters said they are undecided in the contest that is slated for next September.