With 2026 drawing closer, the approval ratings for Gov. Dan McKee and Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos declined in a new poll by the Pell Center at Salve Regina University.
The poll shows approval falling two percentage points for each of the two state officials since an earlier Pell survey in June, with McKee showing a 34% approval rating and a 56% disapproval rating. The comparable figures for Matos are 26% and 39%.
The findings come amid ongoing frustration among motorists about traffic delays and congestion associated with the Washington Bridge, for which state leaders have yet to detail a plan for full replacement.
McKee and Matos both say they plan to see re-election in 2026.
Former CVS executive Helena Foulkes is raising money after a close loss to McKee in the 2022 Democratic primary for governor. A handful of Democrats are considered possible primary opponents for Matos in 2026, but none has confirmed a campaign.
House Speaker Joe Shekarchi, who has about $2.8 million in his campaign account, has said he would not run against McKee, although he is considered a prospective candidate for governor if McKee decides against seeking re-election.
Among state officials, Attorney General Peter Neronha had the best showing in the Pell poll, with a 41% approval rating and 26% disapproval. Secretary of State Gregg Amore had a 32% approval rating and 20% disapproval, while General Treasurer James Diossa showed a 27% approval rating and 26% disapproval.
The findings are based on responses earlier this month from 876 likely voters and have a margin of error of 3.5 percentage points.
In the presidential race, Democrat Kamala Harris leads Republican Donald Trump by 14 points, 51% to 37%, with 9% of respondents undecided. Immigration and the economy are top issues for Republicans, while Democrats are most concerned about the health of American democracy and reproductive rights.
Among Rhode Island’s congressional delegation, traditional frontrunner U.S. Sen. Jack Reed has the best approval rating, at 60%. His disapproval is 25%. The comparable numbers: U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (49/37), and U.S. Reps. Gabe Amo (47/22) and Seth Magaziner (42/35).
The Pell poll shows Whitehouse leading GOP challenger Patricia Morgan 52% to 36%, with 11% undecided.
Amo is ahead of rival Allen Waters 56% to 27%, with 16% undecided.
Magaziner is leading GOP opponent Steven Corvi 50% to 37%, with 12% undecided.
Among other issues, 69% of Democrats say Rhode Island is headed in the right direction, while 95% of Republicans believe the state is on the wrong track and 72% of independents share that view.
Election 2024 coverage on The Public’s Radio is sponsored in part by Ascent Audiology & Hearing, Providence Picture Frame and Rustigian Rugs.
