Independent gubernatorial candidate Ken Block released a poll on Monday showing him as currently in second place in hypothetical matchups that include either incumbent Governor Dan McKee or Democratic challenger Helena Foulkes, with Republican candidate Aaron Guckian in third place in either scenario.

“Rhode Islanders are clearly open to an independent candidate who prioritizes competence and results over party politics,” said Block.

The survey of 802 likely voters, conducted April 13-16 by Opinion Diagnostics, found Block in second place in initial head-to-head tests but surging ahead once respondents received messaging about his experience as a business executive and outsider focused on government efficiency.

In the scenario where  incumbent Gov. Dan McKee wins the Democratic primary, McKee led with 28%, followed by Block at 20% and Republican Aaron Guckian at 15%. After voters heard three short messages about Block, he jumped to 31%, McKee fell to 21% and Guckian dropped to 11%.

Against Democratic challenger Helena Foulkes, the initial test showed Foulkes at 33%, Block at 18% and Guckian at 16%. Post-messaging, Block and Foulkes tied at 27% each, with Guckian at 12%.

Block added: “I am fully committed to this race. These numbers give us confidence that an independent path to the governorship is not only viable but promising, and we look forward to making our case directly to Rhode Island voters in the months ahead.”

Block is the only candidate tested with a net favorable opinion among voters, at +10%. McKee had a net unfavorable rating of -33%, Foulkes -3% and Guckian -3%. More than half of voters, 54%, had no opinion of Block, suggesting room for growth as the campaign progresses.

Affordability ranked as the top issue for 38% of voters, followed by infrastructure at 12%, with fraud and abuse in state government also at 12%.

The poll was sponsored by the Committee to Elect Ken Block and conducted by Opinion Diagnostics.