Rhode Island voters are casting ballots today in a Senate race that pits a long-serving Democratic incumbent against a Republican challenger. Sen. Jack Reed is running for a sixth term, while Republican Raymond McKay hopes to unseat him.
Polls close at 8 p.m. Eastern Time. Decision Desk HQ will provide live results as they come in.
Reed, first elected in 1996, has been a fixture in Rhode Island politics for decades. He serves on the Senate Armed Services Committee and has focused on defense and veterans' issues. His re-election bid comes amid a national political environment that has been turbulent for both parties.
McKay, a political newcomer, faces an uphill battle in a state that has not elected a Republican to the Senate since 1980. Rhode Island is reliably Democratic in federal elections, and Reed has consistently won by wide margins.
Still, the race is being watched for signs of broader electoral trends. Republicans have faced headwinds in several states, with midterm struggles tied to Trump's distractions and record gas prices weighing on the GOP. Those dynamics could influence down-ballot races, even in safe Democratic seats.
In neighboring Maine, Sen. Susan Collins faces a tough re-election bid, and other Senate contests across the country could determine control of the chamber. Rhode Island's outcome is not expected to be competitive, but it remains part of the national narrative.
Reed has emphasized his experience and seniority in campaign appearances, arguing that Rhode Island benefits from his committee assignments. McKay has criticized Reed as a career politician and called for change.
Voters in Rhode Island are also casting ballots in other races, including the governor's mansion and state legislature. But the Senate contest tops the ticket.
As polls close, all eyes will be on whether Reed can maintain his dominance or if McKay can pull off an upset. Decision Desk HQ will have live results as they become available.
