On the Aug. 26 primary, I will cast votes for two Democratic candidates for the Vermont House to represent Middlebury. I will vote for Betty Nuovo and Donna Donahue.
Betty is a good friend and colleague. We served together in the Legislature during the past four years, and she has been instrumental in helping me learn how to be a better legislator. She has deep experience in many policy areas, and her current work on renewable energy, recycling, and composting is helping Vermont set the stage for a more sustainable future. She is a valued member of the Democratic Caucus.
I consider Betty to be a champion of democracy. She believes in a full and fair hearing on all issues before the Legislature. She understands that the words in a bill matter, so she is diligent in her review of any proposal. Betty does not tolerate political bullying — from either party. She stands up to members and leadership alike to keep our deliberations civil and collegial.
I will also vote for Donna Donahue, a neighbor and friend. Donna has the kind of experience that will complement Betty’s perfectly. She has worked in business her whole career, and she is a tireless promoter of the high quality of life we enjoy in Middlebury. We see her at the bank downtown and at community events. She has helped Middlebury so much as a member of the Better Middlebury Partnership, serving for eight years including a term as president. During her tenure BMP created and implemented four signature events: Spooktacular, Very Merry Middlebury, Vermont Chili Festival and Midd Summer Festival. As a parent and grandparent, she understands the importance of a high-quality education enhanced by a variety of recreational and sporting opportunities.
And, Donna knows better than most candidates how important a vibrant economy will be to building out our renewable energy goals and implementing health care reform and a single-payer system. We continue to face serious financial challenges in government. Expensive mistakes have been made. I believe Donna will bring needed experience to Montpelier to help us move forward a progressive agenda that we can afford.
Rep. Paul Ralston, D-Middlebury
Middlebury