PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Democrat Helena Foulkes still isn't a declared candidate for Rhode Island governor in 2026, but she continues to raise money like one. Ahead of Thursday's deadline to file a financial update with the R.I. Board of Elections, Foulkes disclosed that she raised $412,000 during the three-month period ending Sept. 30. “I am grateful for the support as I continue to meet with Rhode Islanders and listen to their concerns about our state's future," Foulkes said in a statement. She declined further comment, and her full report had not yet been filed as of early Thursday evening. The fundraising total for Foulkes, a former CVS executive, significantly outpaced incumbent Gov. Dan McKee. She nearly wrested the Democratic gubernatorial nomination from him in 2022 and is planning to run again in 2026. A report filed Thursday afternoon by McKee's campaign showed the governor raised $144,000 over the same period. Foulkes' campaign said she ended the quarter with $842,000 in cash on hand, while McKee had $505,000. No polling has been conducted in the 2026 gubernatorial race, but surveys have shown a decrease in McKee's job approval rating this year as his administration has struggled to deal with the closure of the Washington Bridge. McKee hasn't officially announced that he will run for reelection in 2026 but has said he is positioning himself to be able to do so. House Speaker Joe Shekarchi -- who is already sitting on roughly $3 million in his campaign account -- has expressed interest in seeking the Democratic nomination if McKee bows out. Secretary of State Gregg Amore has, as well. For now, the governor is keeping a close eye on the moves made by Foulkes and her allies. At a news conference Thursday, McKee accused Attorney General Peter Neronha of investigating the ILO contract scandal in part to help Foulkes, whom Neronha voted for in 2022 and is expected to support again in 2026. Neronha's spokesperson replied that the governor was engaging in "deflection" as an effort to distract public attention from his actions. Ted Nesi ([email protected]) is a Target 12 investigative reporter and 12 News politics/business editor. He co-hosts Newsmakers and writes Nesi's Notes on Saturdays. Connect with him on Twitter, Threads and Facebook. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Nesi's Notes SIGN UP NOW