Elaine Pelino holds a substantial lead in trader consensus for the Rhode Island Republican primary for governor, scheduled for September 9, 2026, reflecting her strong performance in the most recent University of New Hampshire survey of likely Republican voters. Pelino, a political newcomer and former actress who positions herself as an anti-establishment, MAGA-aligned candidate, has emphasized social media outreach and accountability reforms. Aaron Guckian, the state Republican Party’s endorsed nominee with prior government experience and a focus on moderation, trails in polling but secured the formal convention endorsement by a 72-44 delegate vote in June. A contentious August debate highlighted differences on immigration and party positioning, while other declared candidates like Robert Raimondo have exited the race. With many voters still undecided in available surveys, the outcome hinges on turnout among the remaining primary electorate in the final weeks.