Matos Wins Rhode Island Democratic Primary Despite Fundraising Shortfall

Rhode Island Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos won the Democratic primary for lieutenant governor with nearly 37% of the vote, defeating four challengers. Former Newport Mayor Xay Khamsyvoravong finished second with about 26% and conceded the race. Matos, the state’s first Afro-Latina lieutenant governor, prevailed despite trailing some opponents in fundraising and facing criticism over campaign spending by a supportive super PAC. She will face Republican John Loughlin in the general election, which is expected to favor Democrats. Her victory came as Gov. Dan McKee, who selected Matos for the post in 2021, lost his own Democratic primary for governor.