Rodgers pens ‘Vermont Declaration of Independence’

By Guy Page

Suzanne “Suz” Seymour, a Colchester small-business owner, massage therapist, comedian, and community advocate and Highgate resident, on Monday announced her independent candidacy for Vermont’s seat in the United States House of Representatives.

Vermont’s sole House seat is now occupied by Rep. Becca Balint (D). Mark Coester and Gerald Malloy are seeking the GOP nomination. 

Seymour’s campaign slogan is reminiscent of Ronald Reagan’s ‘Are you better off now than you were four years ago?”: “Are You Okay, Vermont?”.

Seymour, who was raised in Franklin County, says she has heard growing concerns about affordability, healthcare, education, family stability, government accountability, and the feeling that elected officials no longer listen to ordinary citizens.

“This is Politics Unusual,” Seymour said. “Too many Vermonters feel ignored by a political system that seems more interested in party agendas than the people it serves. Vermonters deserve a representative who understands Vermont, listens to their concerns, and answers to the people—not political parties or special interests.”

As an independent, Seymour promises a practical, solutions-focused approach to Congress, emphasizing collaboration over partisanship and common sense over political division.

Her campaign priorities include:

• Fiscal responsibility and transparent government

• Strong families and educational reform

• Supporting small businesses and Vermont’s local economy

• Protecting constitutional rights and civil liberties

• Expanding access to affordable healthcare and self-care modalities

• Strengthening Vermont agriculture and rural communities

• Promoting healthier, happier, and more resilient communities

“Too many Vermonters aren’t okay,” Seymour said. “They feel politicians aren’t who they claim to be. They feel their concerns aren’t heard and that their votes don’t matter. Real representation starts with listening. Before I ask Vermonters for their vote, I’m going to ask them what they need and what they want me to stand up for on their behalf.”

Rodgers declares Vermont independence – Lieutenant Governor John Rodgers on Tuesday released and signed his “A Vermont Declaration of Independence,” a statement reaffirming his commitment to independent leadership, bipartisan problem-solving, and putting Vermonters ahead of political parties.

Drawing on Vermont’s unique history as an independent republic and America’s approaching 250th anniversary, Rodgers’ declaration decries the partisan politics and special-interest influence and calls for a return to the principles that have long defined Vermont: freedom, responsibility, hard work, community, and common sense.

The “declaration” builds upon the message Rodgers delivered during his inaugural address, where he pledged to work across party lines and judge every issue on whether it benefits Vermonters. 

“For over twenty years, I’ve believed that good ideas aren’t Republican ideas or Democratic ideas, they’re ideas that make life better for Vermonters,” Rodgers said. “This declaration is simply putting into words what has guided me throughout my public service: I’ll work with anyone willing to solve problems, and I’ll stand up to anyone, regardless of party, whose policies make it harder for Vermonters to afford a home, raise a family, run a business, or retire with dignity. My loyalty has always been to Vermonters. As we celebrate 250 years of American independence, we should also remember what made this country exceptional in the first place. The strength of our communities has always come from hardworking people taking responsibility, helping their neighbors, and building a better future for the next generation. That’s the Vermont worth fighting for.”

Rodgers concluded his declaration with a commitment to serve with independent thought, independent judgment, and independent service pledging to continue working with anyone, from any political party, who is willing to put Vermont first.

Read the full Declaration here.

Rodgers is the 84th Lieutenant Governor of Vermont and a fifth-generation Vermonter from Glover. A lifelong farmer and former member of both the Vermont House and Senate, Rodgers lives on his family’s bicentennial farm with his wife, Brenda.