As election season ramps up, I want to urge voters to fully evaluate their options before checking a box on Nov. 4. Here in Vermont, we have one of the oldest legislatures in the country and as a young citizen I believe it’s time to bring a fresh perspective to the statehouse. While age and experience can often define a successful politician, a prolonged stay in any job can stifle new ideas or solutions to reoccurring problems.
The next decade is a crucial one for Vermont as decisions on financing single-payer health care, adapting public education and attracting businesses will determine much of what our state looks like in the future. There’s a core of dynamic and dedicated legislators in Montpelier committed to making the tough decisions, but as voters we need to be vigilant and engaged, holding every lawmaker accountable to what they have — or haven’t — accomplished. Change is important and with a more diversified Legislature, we can make Vermont more vibrant and economically prosperous for all.
Ben Jickling
Middlebury
Editor’s note: The writer identified himself as director of the campaign of Calvin McEathron, a Middlebury College student who is running for the Vermont House seat that represents Middlebury.