By Guy Page
Speaker of the House Jill Krowinski (D-Burlington) was re-elected to another term today, but not without opposition to the process from one Republican lawmaker.
Krowinski was nominated by Brattleboro Rep. Emilie Kornheiser, and seconded by Republican Mike Marcotte of Coventry. Minority leader Patty McCoy (R-Poultney) then moved that the House assembly cast one ballot to elect Krowinski speaker. At that point, Rep. Anne Donahue (R-Northfield/Berlin) rose to speak.
“We may want to rethink the process of casting one ballot,” Donahue said. “There are some issues around that.” For example, she said, “It denies transparency.”
After Donahue concluded her remarks, Deputy Secretary of State Chris Winters asked for a voice vote on the one ballot question. It passed with a loud chorus of “Ayes” and just one “No” – Donahue’s.
Donahue, a parliamentarian and pro-life lawmaker who was the spokesperson for the anti-Act 22 organization Vermonters for Good Government, did rise with others and applaud Krowinski – a former Planned Parenthood lobbyist – after her election.
Krowinski called lawmakers to pass bills for a vibrant, resilient Vermont. “As your speaker, I remain committed to legislation that protects historically marginalized populations,” Krowinski said.
The House unanimously re-elected Betsy Ann Wrask as Clerk.