The uncertainty of federal aid under the new administration in Washington, the future of
commuter rail in Rhode Island, a new medical school, and a promise of “no broad based taxes,” were among the topics covered by Governor Dan McKee on WBLQ radio in Westerly this week.
McKee was appearing on the Morning Show, hosted by Frank Prosnitz, who is also
WhatsUpNewp’s news editor. Here’s the audio of the Governor’s interview, followed by a recap of the conversation;
Story
Governor Dan McKee outlined his administration’s priorities and addressed several pressing issues facing Rhode Island during a wide-ranging interview on WBLQ radio in Westerly this week.
McKee emphasized the state’s focus on education, income growth, and health initiatives as key components of the “Our Rhode Island 2030” plan.
“We’re going to stay the course,” McKee said, highlighting progress in closing educational achievement gaps with Massachusetts. “We’ve invested a good amount of money into pre-apprenticeship programs, apprenticeship programs, reconnect programs.”
The governor touted $40 million in new funding for local school districts and efforts to help residents complete unfinished college degrees.
On homelessness, McKee defended his administration’s response to recent criticisms, citing a 60% increase in shelter beds since taking office.
“We’ve made significant progress there and we’re going to continue to work on it,” he said, noting ongoing projects like the 45-unit Echo Village and plans to open 160 beds at the former Memorial Hospital.
McKee expressed concern about potential impacts of the new federal administration on state projects and funding streams.
“We don’t know what that challenge looks like,” he said, referencing a freeze on transportation funding distribution. “Time will tell whether or not the new administration is going to be thinking of Rhode Island in a way that is really trying to be helpful.”
The governor addressed the status of several ongoing initiatives, including:
- Commuter rail expansion: McKee confirmed support for elevating the Westerly platform and plans to discuss the project with Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont.
- Archives building: While still under consideration, McKee suggested a “more affordable option” may be needed.
- Medical school at URI: Discussions are ongoing, with cost assessments and further evaluation needed.
Commuter Rail proposal gaining support
McKee highlighted Rhode Island’s economic growth, noting the state’s GDP is outpacing both New England and national averages.
“We want to keep it that way,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to avoiding broad-based tax increases for the fifth consecutive budget.
The governor defended his decision not to declare a state of emergency for homelessness, clarifying misconceptions about available federal funding and his authority to bypass fire codes.
“I’ve made it very clear that I’m not bypassing fire code. It puts a lot of people’s safety at risk,” McKee stated.
Looking ahead to 2026, McKee mentioned preparations for Rhode Island’s 250th anniversary celebrations and efforts to promote the state’s historical significance and economic potential.
“We want to make sure that we are telling our story and making everybody aware that the state is really a special place,” he said.
The interview touched on various other topics, including DMV services in Westerly, offshore wind projects, and healthcare workforce initiatives.
McKee concluded by noting a tuition reimbursement program in the proposed budget for doctors willing to practice in Rhode Island, addressing concerns about retaining medical graduates in the state.
