Politics
Obama backs Helena Foulkes in Rhode Island’s 2026 governor’s race
Former President Barack Obama endorsed Helena Foulkes for Rhode Island governor on Wednesday, adding a high-profile show of support as the Democratic contest sharpens. The announcement followed state Democratic Party mailers attacking Foulkes’ leading opponent over the Affordable Care Act.
Former President Barack Obama endorsed Helena Foulkes for Rhode Island governor on Wednesday, Oct. 21, giving the Democratic candidate a prominent boost in the 2026 race.
“I’m proud to support Helena Foulkes for Governor of Rhode Island,” Obama said in a statement distributed by Foulkes’ campaign.
The endorsement came after the Rhode Island Democratic Party sent attack mailers accusing Foulkes’ leading opponent of opposing the Affordable Care Act, often called Obamacare. The opponent was not identified in the available details.
Obama’s support puts a former president’s name behind Foulkes’ campaign as Democrats compete for the party’s nomination. The endorsement announcement did not include further details about his reasons for backing her.