Aaron Guckian, a self-described "compassionate conservative," won the Republican nomination for governor of Rhode Island on Tuesday night. The former executive director of the Rhode Island Dental Association defeated Elaine Pelino in a close primary that triggered a recount request. Guckian, 50, who previously ran for lieutenant governor in 2022, out-raised Pelino and secured the state Republican Party's endorsement. He campaigned on reducing electricity costs and other affordability issues. Rhode Island leans Democratic, but Donald Trump won more votes statewide in 2024 than 2020. Guckian will face Helena Foulkes, a former CVS executive, in the general election. Ms. Foulkes defeated incumbent Gov. Dan Mc Kee last week to win the Democratic nomination, marking the first time a sitting governor has lost a primary since 2018. Ms. Pelino, a first-time candidate, aligned herself closely with Donald Trump and warned Rhode Island was headed down a socialist path. Jenna Russell, lead reporter for New England based near Boston, covered the race.

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