Kenneth
J. Block

WPRI reported all three major gubernatorial candidates agreed to a live debate at Rhode Island College at 7 p.m. on October 20, ahead of the November 3 general election.

Following the WJAR debate, Guckian publicly called on Block to exit the race. Block rejected the demand and released additional internal polling showing him ahead of Foulkes in a hypothetical two-person matchup.

Block said he opposed biological males competing on female sports teams, described himself as pro-choice, argued Rhode Island cannot keep ICE out but can establish an operational framework, and contended that program charges and fees drive up energy bills. All three candidates called for RIDOT reforms and an end to truck tolls.

Reports through October 5 showed Block with roughly $263,000–$264,000 in his campaign account. He had loaned the campaign $190,000 in September, raised about $63,000, and spent roughly $80,000 since July 1. Foulkes raised more ($403,000) in the same period but held less cash on hand.

Block announced a plan to move Rhode Island's 100%-renewable-electricity deadline from 2033 to 2040, reduce reliance on out-of-state renewable-energy credits, direct RGGI proceeds to low-income ratepayers, and remove taxes passed on by Rhode Island Energy from bills. He warned that rapid renewable conversion could damage the economy.

Block and Foulkes disagreed over affordable housing policy, including Block criticizing the cost assumptions in Foulkes's housing proposal. Guckian did not attend.

Block publicly released the campaign-commissioned Opinion Diagnostics poll to argue Guckian was a spoiler. Guckian responded: 'I'm not dropping out. I'm not going anywhere.'

Opinion Diagnostics surveyed 800 likely voters September 23–25 for Block's campaign. In the multi-candidate field: Foulkes 41%, Block 24%, Guckian 19%, 16% undecided. In a hypothetical two-way matchup, Block led Foulkes 44–39%.