How many times have there been a gubernatorial vacancy in Rhode Island? Six lieutenant governors have been elevated to Governor of Rhode Island since the 1850s. Hereâs a look at who they are By Dan McGowan Globe Staff,Updated January 11, 2021, 9:57 a.m. Email to a Friend Rhode Island was previously governed by royal charter, but its 1842 constitution included a succession plan.Susan E. Bouchard/Associated Press If you have friends or relatives who would like their own free copy of this daily briefing about Rhode Island, tell them they can LEADING OFF Happy Monday and welcome to Rhode Map, your daily guide to everything happening in the Ocean State. Iâm Dan McGowan and football on Nickelodeon was a pleasant experience after a chaotic week. Follow me on Twitter