I am very honored to serve the people of Chittenden County in the Vermont Senate. My election in 2008 was the first of its kind in Vermont, having won with the formal support of both the Democratic and Progressive Parties. Observers of the Vermont political scene know this is no small thing! I continue to be approached by county residents who support this approach.
I wanted to serve in the Senate because I believe Montpelier has fallen short in too many areas that affect our lives. Delivering on the promise of health care for every Vermonter, supporting local agriculture, sound planning for our transportation and energy future, ensuring equal rights for all … Every Legislative session ends with these goals far off in the distance.
Speaking with Senator Ann Cummings on my first day in Montpelier
I bring to the Senate 12 years of working for these principles. Whether it’s been serving on the Burlington City Council, creating affordable senior housing with Cathedral Square, helping veterans and low-income people in Bernie Sanders’ office and the Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity, or my community volunteering, I’ve worked to improve our community, particularly for those without economic security.
Since arriving in the Senate in January 2009, I’ve made expanding the middle class my foremost concern. From making sure stimulus dollars flow to workers facing hard times, to investing in training programs for at-risk young people, to strengthening our minimum wage law, and more, I believe it’s critical to view all policies through the lens of how they do or do not support expansion of the middle class.
I’ve also been successful supporting local agriculture (the Farm-to-Plate Initiative the Governor is now applauding) and local clean energy (Clean Energy Assessment Districts legislation).
Just like every effort in Montpelier is only successful with the collaboration of other Legislators, I believe my work in the Senate can only be effective if I hear directly from constituents with their thoughts and concerns. So please feel free to contact me on any issue. You’d be surprised how one call can lead to successful legislation…
Thanks so much for stopping by. Please stay in touch.
Sincerely,
