Other than House seats, Rhode Island has no major offices up for election this season.

Democratic Rep. Patrick Kennedy will take on former Navy SEAL David Rogers, who had challenged Kennedy in 2002. Both were easily elected in the primaries.

Incumbent Democrat Rep. James Langevin was unopposed in the primary. He takes on Republican Arthur 'Chuck' Barton.

In his first term as governor, Republican Don Carcieri's support is strong but declining, as the political newcomer struggles with a state budget crisis. Carcieri defeated three-time Democratic candidate Myrth York in a close race to succeed Republican Gov. Lincoln Almond, who could not run because of term limits.

Carcieri has warned state agencies to prepare for cuts of up to 10 percent in their budgets, which could lead to up to $112 million in reduced spending for government services.

He has also started negotiations with state workers in the final year of contracts by offering a choice between a cut in pay or benefits.

Carcieri also has a goal of creating 20,000 new jobs during his term, which ends in 2006, by positioning the state as a center for business innovation.

Other than House races, no major offices are up for re-election in 2004.

In the 2002 races, incumbent Democratic Senator Jack Reed was elected to a second term, an easy winner over Republican casino pit boss Bob Tingle.

In the House races, incumbent Democrat Patrick Kennedy earned a fifth term despite challenges to his accountability from Republican Dave Rogers, a former Navy SEAL.

Voters favored a nonbinding measure to balance power between the state's executive and legislative branches.