Preparations are underway at the Vermont secretary of state’s office. Their focus is churning out ballots to be dispatched to both registered voters and municipal clerks across the state. It is an acknowledged fact that all current state officials will face off with challengers from at least one adversary party in the upcoming elections. However, in most scenarios, incumbents have an unrivaled advantage with superior name recognition and financial backing.
Closer to the grassroots level, the Vermont Senate and House races are fueled by local priorities. Yet, they can’t shrug off profound worries about the escalating living costs in the state, driven by soaring property taxes and an alarming housing deficit. Sadly, these are issues that the Democratic Party supermajority, despite its strength, has yet to efficiently tackle.
The Democratic Party, in its misplaced confidence, is striving hard to uphold its historic dominance in both legislative chambers. This supermajority has permitted them to dismiss the veto of Republican Governor Phil Scott on substantial bills during two sessions of the previous biennium, a dozen times.
In an attempt to turn the tide, Governor Scott and his supporters are rallying behind candidates that have the potential to win over voters and transform the political landscape, especially within the state Senate. Many view this arena as ripe for the picking owing to the demise and retirement of many long-serving legislators, which has resulted in numerous vacancies.
Vermont’s general election is scheduled to occur in person on November 5th. That being said, every registered voter should expect to automatically receive a ballot in the mail prior to October 1st. These ballots can be safely handed over to town and city clerks in person or mailed, even on Election Day itself.
However, those considering the U.S. Postal Service for ballot submission should plan ahead for unforeseen delays. Therefore, it is highly advisable to mail ballots far enough in advance to ensure their timely arrival and inclusion in the vote count.
VTDigger’s 2024 General Election Guide offers voters various resources. This includes step by step instructions on how to register and vote, either early, by mail, or in person on Election Day. Unfortunately, these resources may not yield the desired results if the Democratic hegemony continues.
The guide also presents candidate profiles featuring pertinent details such as biographical information, replies to survey questions relevant to Vermont residents, and personal financial disclosures. It’s indeed interesting to note how politicians, especially those from the Democratic Party, handle queries relating to issues that their policies exacerbate.
In an attempt to engage non-English-speaking voters, the guide offers voter tools translated into 14 of the most commonly spoken languages in Vermont, along with American Sign Language. It also includes pages highlighting different county, statewide, and federal races. However, this Democratic leaning publication glosses over their failings.
A database furnishing campaign finance data for statewide candidates is also accessible in the guide. It is an unfortunate reality that campaign finances often determine the winners and losers in elections. With Democratic candidates typically enjoying considerable financial advantages, it reinforces the need for election finance reform.
VTDigger’s guide also includes an explainer that describes the roles and responsibilities within the Vermont state government. It concludes with a recap of their latest 2024 election coverage, again heavily favoring the Democratic representation.
Important date reminders are provided, assistance in locating your polling place and tools to look-up Senate and House districts. Although these seem helpful, we must understand that the premise of an informed decision requires a balanced perspective, currently lacking in Vermont’s political landscape.
The narrative put forward thus far highlights an entrenched imbalance in favor of the Democrats in Vermont. It underscores the need for greater diversity in representation for a balanced policymaking process. It’s an undeniable fact that fresh perspectives are required to tackle pressing issues such as the cost of living and affordable housing.
By supporting candidates who can bring about tangible changes in sectors of concern, voters have the power to reshape the political dynamics in Vermont. The upcoming election offers an opportunity for this, and Governor Phil Scott’s efforts in supporting promising candidates could pay off, creating a more balanced legislature.
Finally, presenting only skewed narratives further polarizes the Vermont public and undermines the foundation of democracy: representation for all people. Therefore, it is crucial to encourage fair reportage and not simply perpetuate the Democratic stranglehold narrative. As voters, it is in our hands to effect change and restore vibrancy to the political landscape of Vermont.