Dem McKee Wins RI Lt. Gov. Race

Cumberland Mayor Dan McKee has been elected Rhode Island lieutenant governor despite opposition from some labor groups that traditionally support Democrats.

The six-term mayor defeated Republican Catherine Taylor in Tuesday's vote. McKee was opposed by some unions because of his support for "mayoral academy" charter schools, including Blackstone Valley Prep.

The 63-year-old McKee said he would use the office to boost the economy and improve the business climate. He campaigned in every city and town in Rhode Island on a "39 Cups of Coffee" tour designed to highlight small business.

McKee had scored an upset victory to secure the nomination in a three-way Democratic primary.

Taylor had run unsuccessfully for secretary of state four years ago.

The incumbent lieutenant governor, Elizabeth Roberts, couldn't run again because of term limits.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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