Foulkes proposes ban on lobbyist donations during legislative session

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Helena Foulkes on Monday unveiled a slate of proposed ethics changes as she intensifies her bid for the Democratic nomination for governor, calling for a prohibition on campaign contributions from lobbyists while the General Assembly is in session.

The announcement came one day ahead of Gov. Dan McKee’s State of the State address and included three reforms, one of which would restrict fundraising activity that has helped House Speaker Joe Shekarchi amass roughly $4 million in campaign cash.

Foulkes said the measures are intended to rebuild trust in state government, arguing that too many residents believe the political system favors insiders over everyday Rhode Islanders. She pointed to nearly two dozen other states, including neighboring Massachusetts and Connecticut, that already limit fundraising during legislative sessions.

Beyond the fundraising ban, Foulkes is also seeking to require lobbyists to report their activities immediately and to disclose any gifts to lawmakers valued above $1. She added that her campaign has already adopted these standards voluntarily and urged her rivals to follow suit.

Foulkes said she frequently hears from voters who feel unheard by their leaders and who believe access at the State House depends on personal connections rather than public interest.

The McKee campaign quickly pushed back. Spokeswoman Christina Freundlich criticized Foulkes’ record, accusing her of prioritizing corporate interests and pointing to her past work in the private sector. Freundlich said McKee would continue to challenge powerful interests and advocate for working families.

Shekarchi, who is hosting his annual kickoff fundraiser Monday evening at the Warwick Crowne Plaza, responded briefly, saying any proposal introduced would move through the normal committee process with opportunities for public testimony. Senate President Val Lawson echoed that sentiment.

Efforts to curb lobbyist donations are not new. Last year, Rep. John Lombardi introduced legislation to bar such contributions during the legislative session, but the bill stalled amid objections from the ACLU, which raised First Amendment concerns.

Foulkes is not alone in the Democratic field. Providence restaurateur Gregory Stevens has also entered the race, while Republicans Aaron Guckian, Elaine Pelino and Robert Raimondo are seeking their party’s nomination. The primary is scheduled for Sept. 8.