PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — The race for Rhode Island governor took center stage Tuesday night as 12 News hosted a live debate between the three major candidates.
Democrat Helena Foulkes, Republican Aaron Guckian and independent Ken Block sparred over topics important to voters, from housing and healthcare to Flock cameras and pension reform.
In the video above, 12 News anchors Mike Montecalvo and Shannon Hegy are joined by the Globe RI’s Steph Machado to look back at key moments from the debate and provide analysis.
Below is a breakdown from 12 News political analyst Joe Fleming, followed by more highlights from the debate.
It was the candidates’ last big chance to show Rhode Islanders why they’re the right person for the job, with just two weeks until the general election and early voting already underway.
You can watch the full debate here, and see some other key moments below.
WATCH: Rhode Island Governor Debate
The housing crisis
Our 12 News/Emerson poll released last week showed housing is a key concern among voters. 12 News Politics Editor Ted Nesi asked the candidates how they would address the issue.
Report: RI still far from reaching ‘Housing 2030’ goals
Automated license plate readers
As these cameras, like those made by Flock Safety, are the subject of debate locally and nationwide, outgoing Gov. Dan McKee put out new guidelines for police departments looking to install them. Moderator Tim White asked the candidates whether they agree with that approach or if they’d rather see the cameras come down.
McKee shares guidelines for automated license plate readers
Pension reform and the state budget
Voters in our poll also expressed concern about taxes and state spending. With pensions for public sector retirees being one of the biggest items in the budget, here’s what the candidates had to say about the matter.
Healthcare
We asked the candidates to name one change they could make as governor that they believe would have a material impact on the average patient’s life. Here are their responses.
Closing statements
Each candidate was given a minute to make their final pitch to Rhode Island voters.
Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts.
Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the free WPRI 12+ TV app.
Follow us on social media:
[sailthru_widget name=”Sailthru Widget Block” sailthru_list=”Nesi Notes” title=”Nesi’s Notes”] Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com.