Foulkes Announces 26 New Endorsements, Opens Broad Street Campaign Office
Providence, RI – With 57 days until Rhode Island’s Democratic Primary, Helena Buonanno Foulkes announced 26 new endorsements from state senators, representatives, and city council members in her campaign for governor, while celebrating the opening of her new Broad Street office in Providence.
“I am deeply grateful to have the support of each and every one of these local leaders,” said Helena. “These endorsements represent what I hear in kitchens and living rooms across the state: Rhode Islanders are ready for change. That change won’t happen alone, and I am so excited to work together to build a Rhode Island that works for everyone.”
“I think Helena has the executive experience we need,” said Representative Edie Ajello.
“Rhode Island needs a governor who understands that leadership is about listening, bringing people together and delivering real results,” said Cranston City Councilman Andy Andujar. “Helena Foulkes has the experience, compassion and determination to make our state more affordable, expand opportunity and build a government that works for every community. I’m proud to endorse Helena Foulkes for governor.”
“I’ve spent my career fighting for communities that too often feel overlooked. Helena understands that our success as a state depends on whether every neighborhood has the opportunity to thrive,” said Representative Nathan Biah. “She’s a thoughtful leader who listens first, acts with purpose, and is ready to move Rhode Island forward.”
“I am excited to support Helena,” said Representative Lauren Carson. “RI is ready for her leadership and I look forward to working with her administration on many issues including aging policy, resilience and a sound working state government.”
When a bridge fails, when contracts become controversial, and when public confidence erodes, Rhode Islanders need leaders who ask tough questions, demand transparency, and solve problems before they become crises,” said Senator Lou DiPalma. “Helena has the executive leadership, experience, and expertise to do exactly that.”
“In 2022, I spent considerable time walking door to door with Helena Foulkes. I did not know her well when we began, but I quickly saw not only how intelligent and capable she is, but also how grounded she remains and how deeply she listens,” said Senator Mark McKenney. “Those qualities speak to both her character and her leadership, and they are why I am proud to endorse Helena Foulkes as Rhode Island’s next governor.”
“I’m supporting Helena because she is analytical, data-driven, and understands not only the numbers behind the budget, but the bigger picture of where Rhode Island can go,” said Representative Bob Phillips. “I’ve also had the opportunity to take her around our city and see firsthand how she engages with residents. Helena truly listens. She values people’s perspectives, asks thoughtful questions, and takes the time to understand their concerns. That’s the kind of leadership that brings people together and moves Rhode Island forward.”
“Rhode Island gave me the opportunity to build a life through hard work, and I’ve dedicated my career to making sure that opportunity exists for others,” said Senator Ana Quezada. “Helena understands that government should work for working families. She listens, brings people together, and has the experience to deliver results that make a real difference in people’s lives.”
“As Council President, I know how important a strong partnership between state and local government is,” said East Providence City Council President Bob Roderick. “Helena Foulkes has the experience, leadership, and collaborative approach to help cities and towns thrive. I look forward to working with her to build an even stronger future for East Providence and all of Rhode Island.”
“After years working on state budgets and the issues that matter most to Rhode Island families, I’ve learned that good intentions aren’t enough. You need leaders who know how to manage, make tough decisions, and deliver results,” said Representative Scott Slater. “Helena has that experience. She understands what’s at stake for Rhode Islanders and has the leadership to move our state forward with competence and accountability.”
“Helena Foulkes listens, and then she delivers,” said Central Falls City Councilman Franklin Solano. “She’s been in our neighborhoods with our families and our small business owners, and she’s ready to fight for real opportunity for Rhode Island’s working families and our Latino community. I’m proud to endorse her.”
“In my 16 years of service in state government, I have seen Rhode Island face difficult times,” said Representative Teresa Tanzi. “With the challenges and uncertainty confronting us today, including those coming from Washington, Rhode Islanders need and deserve the steady, competent leadership Helena will bring to the governor’s office.”
“After a career serving Providence as a firefighter and now as a City Councilman, I’ve seen firsthand how important strong leadership is to safe neighborhoods and thriving communities,” said Providence City Councilman Jim Taylor. “Helena understands that cities and towns need a true partner in the Governor’s Office. She has the experience, judgment, and commitment to help Rhode Island’s communities succeed.”
“Helena is thoughtful, articulate and open to discussing real reforms to our healthcare system,” said Senator Linda Ujifusa.
“I enthusiastically and wholeheartedly endorse Helena Foulkes to be Rhode Island’s next Governor! Helena is exactly what this state needs to right this ship,” said Representative Julie Casimiro. “We simply cannot afford four more years of the McKee administration and their costly and avoidable mistakes. Our roads and bridges are among the worst in the country. Helena will get things done hiring the right people with the right skill sets. She has what it takes to do this job the way it needs to be done so Rhode Island thrives. She has my complete support!”
“My story is one of opportunity, hard work, and the belief that everyone deserves the chance to succeed,” said Providence City Councilwoman Ana Vargas. “That’s why I’m proud to support Helena Foulkes. She sees people, not politics, listens with respect, and has the experience to deliver results. I know she’ll fight every day for every Rhode Islander with integrity, compassion, and purpose.”
“Having served in both local and state government, I know how important it is for a governor to show up for Rhode Islanders,” said Senator Lammis Vargas. “Helena has the experience to build strong partnerships, make sound decisions, and move the state forward with confidence.”
“Rhode Islanders deserve a state government that serves them with competence and integrity,” said Senator Sam Zurier. “Helena knows how to hire talented people, hold them accountable, and provide the strong leadership our state needs during these challenging times.”
The full list of tonight’s endorsements is below:
Representative Edie Ajello
Cranston City Councilman Andy Andujar
Representative Nathan Biah
Representative Jennifer Boylan
Representative Lauren Carson
Representative Julie Casimiro
Representative Terri Cortvriend
Representative Gregory J. Costantino
Representative Grace Diaz
Senator Lou DiPalma
Providence City Councilman Pedro Espinal
Senator Pam Lauria
Senator Tiara Mack
Representative Michelle McGaw
Senator Mark McKenney
Representative Bob Phillips
Senator Ana Quezada
East Providence City Council President Bob Rodericks
Representative Scott Slater
Central Falls City Councilman Franklin Solano
Representative Teresa Tanzi
Providence City Councilman Jim Taylor
Senator Linda Ujifusa
Providence City Councilwoman Ana Vargas
Senator Lammis Vargas
Senator Sam Zurier
