Some states will never elect a Republican governor, so it is like a victory for conservatism when the reform Democrat defeated a union stooge in Rhode Island's Democratic gubernatorial primary.

Gina Raimondo, the state Treasurer, led the reform that resulted in legislation that has modified the state's public sector retirement program by raising the retirement age to 67 from 62, suspending retirees' cost-of-living adjustments, and shifting workers to hybrid plans with a modest annuity and defined-contribution component. The reforms cut the unfunded liability by nearly half and are saving taxpayers hundreds of millions annually. And she opposes higher taxes—even on the wealthy.

Ms. Raimondo won with 42% of the vote, compared to 29% for second-place, amid record primary turnout.