Who Is the Governor of Rhode Island? Daniel J. McKee Current Officeholder, Political Party, Term Limits & Public Experience Explained

As of July 2025, Daniel J. McKee is serving as the Governor of Rhode Island. A Democratic Party member, McKee took office on March 2, 2021, becoming the 76th governor of the state. He assumed the role following the resignation of former Governor Gina Raimondo, who joined the Biden administration as U.S. Secretary of Commerce.

Political Background and Party Affiliation

Governor McKee is a lifelong Democrat. He leads Rhode Island under a Democratic trifecta, which means the Governor’s Office, State Senate, and House of Representatives are all controlled by the Democratic Party. This allows for smoother coordination in passing state legislation aligned with Democratic policies, including education reform, economic support for small businesses, and environmental initiatives.

What Are the Term Limits for a Rhode Island Governor?

In Rhode Island, a governor can serve two consecutive four-year terms. That means a governor can stay in office for up to eight years in a row. However, the law allows a former governor to run again after a break in service. McKee won his first full term in November 2022 and is currently within his first official four-year term.

Governor McKee’s Public Service Experience

Governor McKee’s path to the top job included many important leadership roles at both local and state levels. These roles helped shape his approach to public service.

His time as Mayor helped him tackle financial and educational challenges. As Lieutenant Governor, he worked closely with small businesses, including leading efforts to distribute CARES Act funds during the pandemic. These experiences built the foundation for his leadership as Governor.

Focus Areas as Governor

Governor McKee is known for focusing on:

• Strengthening the workforce

• Improving public education

• Expanding access to healthcare

• Encouraging economic development

• Avoiding new broad-based tax increases

His leadership style emphasizes practical solutions and community-based policies.

Summary: Key Facts About Rhode Island’s Governor

• Name: Daniel J. McKee

• Age: 74 (Born June 17, 1951)

• Party: Democratic

• Assumed Office: March 2, 2021

• Education: B.A. from Assumption College; MPA from Harvard Kennedy School

• Term Limit: Two consecutive four-year terms

• Prior Roles: Mayor of Cumberland, Lieutenant Governor, Town Council member