McKee’s New Campaign Manager Is Leaving
GoLocalProv News Team
McKee’s New Campaign Manager Is Leaving
Silverstein’s arrival came with great fanfare. But, things turned sour. Silverstein and long-time McKee campaign staffer Mike Trainor clashed, according to multiple sources.
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Trainor has worked on McKee’s campaigns for decades and has served as a spokesperson going back more than a decade.
Trainor, reached by phone by GoLocal when asked about Silverstein’s departure, said, “I have no comment and I am not authorized to say anything at this time."
Hope in June
“I’m excited to have a strong team of talented operatives to run my re-election campaign,” said McKee in announcing Silverstein’s appointment on June 3. “Nobody will outwork us on the trail, and Rob and Neil embody that ethos. With their experiences on highly competitive races and excellent track records of success in state campaigns, I am confident that we are well-positioned to continue delivering results for Rhode Island for years to come.”
“For the past four years, Rob Silverstein has been a key member of our team, bringing sharp political instincts, tireless commitment, and a deep understanding of what it takes to win tough races,” said New York Governor Kathy Hochul in the June announcement. “Rob has been instrumental in building a stronger Democratic Party in New York and played a critical role in our success flipping key House seats last year. Governor McKee is gaining a skilled and strategic leader, and I’m proud to call Rob a trusted former member of my team.”
McKee recorded dismal fundraising numbers for the 2nd quarter, falling far behind both Helena Foulkes and Speaker Joe Shekarchi.
Silverstein is also reporting personal factors as a reason for the departure. According to sources with direct knowledge, he had not moved to Rhode Island.
Silverstien declined to comment.