It happens every two years in Rhode Island. In late August, a few leaves begin twirling down from trees. College students depart; or return. Yellow buses return to the roads. And then, bam! It’s Primary Election Day.

Before most people realize what’s happening, a small number of Rhode Island voters will cast ballots that shape the leadership and direction of the Ocean State. Held two days after Labor Day, on Wednesday, Sept. 9, the primary elections will have enormous impact on the future of Rhode Island.

At the top is the race for governor, with the perceived leading candidates in the race, incumbent Dan McKee and challenger Helena Buonanno Foulkes, facing each other in a win or go home showdown. One will move on to November ballot as the presumptive favorite, while the other, along with three other Democratic candidates, will be out of the race.

The same is true on the Republican side – five candidates for one spot. But that’s not all.

There are five Democrats running for lieutenant governor. There are four running for Attorney General. In many communities, there are primary showdowns for seats in the General Assembly or on the Town Council.

All of these positions have tremendous influence over the services, cost of living and quality of life here. It’s a shame that too many races are determined by a distracted electorate still feeling the warm embrace of summer.

So enjoy every last drop of these last days of summer, but keep an eye on the calendar and tune in to the news and messages of the 2026 election. The East Bay Chamber of Commerce is giving you a good jumpstart by hosting three forums for statewide candidates. This week, the Chamber hosts forums for Attorney General (Aug. 26) and Lieutenant Governor (Aug. 27). Next week it hosts a forum for the candidates running for Governor (Sept. 3). All take place at 8 a.m. at The Event Room at Cutler Mill in Warren.

The first “Election Day” of the 2026 season will be here much faster than you realize. You owe it to yourself and your neighbors to tune in and be prepared when it does.