Zuckerman backed by all three members of Congress
By Paul Bean
Yesterday at 10 AM, Republican lieutenant governor candidate John Rodgers announced on his campaign Facebook page that he has the support and endorsement of the last three occupants of the corner office on the Fifth Floor of the Pavilion building in Montpelier. Former governors Jim Douglas (R) and Peter Shumlin (D) and incumbent Phil Scott all issued statements outlining their support for Rodgers.
Rodgers, a former Democrat legislator, is running against Dem/Prog incumbent LG David Zuckerman. In the primary, Zuckerman’s opponent was the recipient of campaign contributions from prominent Democrat elected officials and activists. However he won the Democratic primary. This coming Tuesday, Vermont will learn if the bi-partisan endorsement of the last three governors will be enough to lift Rodgers over Zuckerman in what many observers say is a tight race.
Zuckerman has been endorsed by Sens. Bernie Sanders and Peter Welch and Rep. Becca Balint, as well as several state senators, according to his Facebook Page.
The Rodgers campaign highlighted the importance of current and former governors endorsing their choice for 2024 lieutenant governor.
“All three governors, despite differing party affiliations, enjoy reputations for fiscal responsibility and accountability and a willingness to make tough decisions even when it meant disappointing special interests,” writes the Rodgers campaign in the Facebook post. “These same qualities are desperately needed in a statewide leader right now, and the governors are emphatic when speaking to Rodgers integrity.”
Rodgers served as a Democrat for eight years in the Vermont House and another 8 years in the Senate. After a 4 year hiatus, he launched his campaign for Lt Governor, this time as a Republican. He announced his campaign in the spring after two successful tax related protests at the statehouse.
The slogan of these protests “Tap Trees, Not Vermonters.”
Republican Governor Jim Douglas writes: “Having spent a few years of my life around Montpelier, it’s fair to say, I appreciate the value of bipartisan governance. John was always one of those elected officials I could count on to speak his mind, fiercely if necessary, in defense of his constituents and independent of party mandates. He always did so sincerely, thoughtfully, and in the collaborative spirit of finding the best solution for all Vermonters. I respected him then and respect him even more now. Please join me in voting for John Rodgers for lieutenant governor.”
Democrat Governor Shumlin writes: “I have worked with John Rodgers for many years. I trust John and I know that he has the best interests of Vermonters at heart.”
Republican Governor Scott adds to his endorsement: “I’ve known John for years and worked with him while he was in the House and the Senate, and I’ve seen firsthand how committed he is to Vermont. John knows what hard work is all about. He also knows that the solutions to our problems do not come from the extremes of either party — but somewhere in the middle. We need more voices like John’s in Montpelier to bring more balance and common sense to lawmaking. He would make a strong partner.”
Rodgers is challenging incumbent Progressive-Democrat David Zuckerman. Rodgers and Zuckerman squared off in their final debate last night on WCAX. This bi-partisan support from the current Governor and former Governors comes with just 5 days go until Election Day.