By Guy Page

Zachary J. Harvey, one of Gov. Phil Scott’s most outspoken allies in the Vermont House, announced Wednesday he will not seek election this fall to the Rutland-3 district seat he has held for the past two years.

Harvey, a Castleton Republican known for his sharp floor interrogations and tough-on-crime advocacy in the House Judiciary Committee, made the announcement in a statement provided exclusively to Vermont Daily Chronicle.

“When I returned home to Vermont after attending college in Rhode Island and then working in New York City, I looked forward to spending more time with my family but didn’t know what awaited me professionally,” Harvey said. “I never imagined that returning to my hometown would lead me on an unexpected journey representing the residents of Castleton — including my family, friends and neighbors I grew up with — in Montpelier.”

“Today, I am announcing that I will not be seeking re-election to Rutland’s 3rd District in the Vermont House of Representatives,” he said.

Harvey said stepping away was a difficult decision.

“For those who know me, being a public servant has felt less like a job or a career and more like a lifelong calling,” Harvey said. “As I reflect on this chapter, I feel incredibly grateful. This difficult decision was only made easier knowing that my constituents will be left in the most capable hands.”

During his tenure, Harvey became a leading Republican voice on public safety issues and a frequent defender of law enforcement during Judiciary Committee debates. He also earned a reputation for blunt questioning and a no-nonsense approach during House floor debate and committee hearings.

Harvey reflected on the Vermonters he encountered while serving in office.

“Hearing from Vermonters and working to improve their daily lives has been the most rewarding work of my life,” he said. “I think of the people I’ve met — from families navigating unimaginable loss, to farmers fighting to hold on to their land, to the children who so clearly represent the promise of Vermont’s future.”

He said Vermont faces major challenges on affordability, housing, education and public safety.

“It is not lost on me that Vermont is at a crossroads,” Harvey said. “There are innumerable challenges facing our great state — from affordability and housing to the perennial issues of education and public safety. I hope that my colleagues will listen to the voices of Vermonters and continue working to improve the lives they were elected to represent.”

Harvey also thanked Scott, House colleagues and his family for supporting him during his legislative service.

“This isn’t goodbye, but a heartfelt thank you for two of the most meaningful years of my life,” he said.

People familiar with Harvey’s future plans say a return to Wall Street and New York appears the most likely next step following his departure from elected office.