By VDC Staff

According to a recent press release issued by the campaign, Democratic state Representative Matt Birong of Addison County has joined Lt. Governor John Rodgers’ reelection campaign as campaign chairman, taking on a senior role overseeing campaign strategy, operations, and day-to-day activities.

Birong, who recently endorsed Rodgers, will work with the campaign’s senior team. His responsibilities will include coordinating with elected officials and other stakeholders, policy and issue development, messaging, voter targeting, and campaign strategy. According to the press release, his decision reflects his belief that Vermont needs leaders willing to work across traditional partisan lines. Although Birong is a Democrat and Rodgers is a Republican, both said they believe political affiliation should not prevent people from working together.

Birong has represented the Addison-3 District in the Vermont House since 2019. A chef and former small-business owner, he previously owned 3 Squares Café in Vergennes and has spent more than three decades working in Vermont’s food and hospitality industry.

Governor Scott makes more endorsements

Recently, Republican Governor Phil Scott added three more endorsements to his roster of endorsed candidates. Jonathan Gleason, incumbent Rep. Kevin Winter, and incumbent Sen. Russ Ingalls. Statements provided by the governor are listed below. 

“Jonathan Gleason will work with me to pass mainstream policies to make life more affordable for Vermonters. Join me in supporting him this November.”

“Kevin Winter has been a consistent vote for a more affordable Vermont since he took office last year. Join me in supporting Kevin this November. We will need his support for mainstream policies to solve our affordability crisis.” 

“Russ Ingalls has been a consistent ally to my team on public safety, repealing Tier 3 and the Road Rule, affordability, and more. Vermonters need his voice in the State Senate.”