CRANSTON, R.I. – With just days left before the November ballot, Republican gubernatorial candidate Aaron Guckian is traveling across the state to make his closing argument to voters. In an interview with NBC 10’s “10 News Conference,” Guckian framed his campaign around three core promises: lower taxes, pragmatic governance, and a willingness to work with the current federal administration.

Tax relief and moderate leadership

“People are getting crushed with taxes and fees. I’m going to lower taxes and fees,” Guckian said. He positioned himself as a centrist alternative, describing Democrat Helena Foulkes as “extreme” and independent Ken Block as “cutting the line” by avoiding a primary.

Guckian also attacked Foulkes for endorsing David Morales, a democratic socialist slated to become Providence’s next mayor. He called Morales “the most dangerous politician in the country” and labeled Foulkes’ endorsement “very extreme.”

Polling reality

When asked about recent poll numbers, Guckian dismissed the figures, saying, “I don’t believe the polls.” The Salve Regina University Pell Center poll released last week showed Foulkes leading with 39% support, Block at 28%, and Guckian trailing at 17%.

Federal partnership

Guckian emphasized the need for federal dollars to address Rhode Island’s crumbling infrastructure. “We have a bridge and road issue, a massive issue. We need federal dollars, period,” he asserted. He added, “I don’t care if it’s Barack Obama, President Biden – we need to work with this administration,” before clarifying his support for President Trump’s leadership, stating, “Aaron Guckian is the only one that can do it.”

Fundraising and grassroots support

Facing a fundraising gap compared with Foulkes and Block, Guckian highlighted his party’s endorsement and contributions from individual supporters. “People are hurting,” he said, noting donors had given $50, $100, and $250 before the primary. He likened his campaign’s underdog status to “Rhode Island’s Rocky Balboa,” underscoring his resolve to stay in the race.

Critics and context

Block, who previously ran under the Moderate Party in 2010 and as a Republican in 2014, was accused by Guckian of evading a primary, a charge that reflects the typical partisan friction in a three‑way race. Both Foulkes and Block have positioned themselves as alternatives to Guckian’s conservative platform, but Guckian argues his experience and willingness to collaborate with the Trump administration give him the edge in delivering results for Rhode Island families.

As Election Day approaches, Guckian’s message centers on tax relief, pragmatic governance, and leveraging federal resources—key themes that resonate with voters seeking stability and economic relief.

Original reporting: NBC 10 WJAR (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.