The Vermont Republican Party has experienced a surge in candidates seeking state House seats, a development attributed to recent tax increases and renewed focus on the presidential race. While the state has traditionally leaned towards Democrats, Republican Chairman Paul Dame believes the party is poised for significant gains in the November elections.
The Vermont Republican Party has witnessed a remarkable increase in its candidate pool for the upcoming state House races. After the finalization of the state's recent primary tabulations, an additional 22 candidates joined the race, adding to the 74 already vying for seats in the 150-member chamber. This surge in Republican candidacies is a notable development in a state that is generally considered a blue stronghold.
Vermont GOP Gains Momentum Amidst Economic Woes, Voter Discontent
Vermont Republican Party Chairman Paul Dame credits the GOP's boost to a recently enacted "double-digit" property tax hike in the state, as well as voters' renewed focus on the presidential race. Dame expressed optimism about the party's prospects, stating, "We're absolutely poised to pick up seats from where we have been... there seems to be much more energy and cohesion on the Republican side than we've had in a while."
The influx of Republican candidates has been particularly noticeable among latecomers to the ballot. In Vermont, voters may organize write-in campaigns if a certain number of signatures are collected after the primary ballot is finalized in May. If successful, these write-in candidates can secure a spot on the November general election ballot.
Vermont GOP Gains Momentum Amidst Economic Woes, Voter Discontent
While the current number of 96 Republican candidates still falls short of the 130 Republicans seen on the ballot two decades ago, Dame emphasized the significance of Vermonters stepping up to serve. He attributed this grassroots movement to voters' desire for change and affordability concerns.
The Democratic Party has recently gained a supermajority in the legislature, leading to a record number of vetoes by Governor Phil Scott and a record number of veto overrides by Democratic lawmakers. Scott has called for immediate tax relief, while House Speaker Jill Krowinski has criticized the governor for failing to provide a sufficient alternative plan.
Vermont GOP Gains Momentum Amidst Economic Woes, Voter Discontent
Despite the current partisan divide, Vermont has historically exhibited a willingness to support candidates from both sides of the political spectrum. Governor Phil Scott, a moderate Republican, enjoys high popularity and is considered a heavy favorite in the upcoming election. Similarly, Senator Bernie Sanders, a self-described "democratic socialist," has consistently strong support among Vermonters.
Dame believes that Vermonters value authenticity and trust in their elected officials, regardless of their political affiliation. Both Scott and Sanders have a track record of criticizing their own party when necessary, a trait that resonates with Vermont voters.
Vermont GOP Gains Momentum Amidst Economic Woes, Voter Discontent
In the latest University of New Hampshire poll, Sanders leads his Republican challenger Gerald Malloy by a comfortable margin of 66-25%. Scott holds a similar advantage over Democrat Esther Charlestin, with 55% of voters supporting him to Charlestin's 28%.
Former Senator Jim Jeffords, who was the last Republican member of Congress from Vermont, notably changed his affiliation to an Independent in 2001, shifting control of the Senate to the Democrats. Fox News Digital reached out to the Vermont Democratic Party for comment but did not receive a response by press time.
