I am writing to express my support for Lt. Gov. Molly Gray in her race for the U.S. House of Representatives. As an environmentalist, nonprofit professional and expecting mother, I feel that Molly is best qualified to get to work tackling my top policy priorities.

Molly understands that climate is a massive, global-scale challenge — but also one that demands local action. As our Congresswoman, Molly will use her experience as an international human rights lawyer to encourage climate diplomacy; at the same time, she will pursue domestic legislation giving Vermont the tools to build out our green infrastructure and meet our climate goals.

As an expecting mother, I am acutely aware that the U.S. is one of only a handful of countries without national paid maternity leave. I know that in Congress Molly will push hard to pass a Paid Family and Medical Leave bill. Beyond its obvious moral imperative, this law will help to address our state’s workforce and child care crises.

There are multiple well-qualified Democratic women in this race. I would happily cast my ballot for any one of them in November. However, Molly has shown that she’s the pragmatic, tested choice. She’s the only candidate to have won statewide — an important credential, given our popular Republican governor. And with her considerable experience on Capitol Hill, she’s the best-equipped to put her agenda into action.

I’ll be voting for Lt. Gov. Molly Gray in the August 9 primary. I urge my fellow Vermonters to join me.

Abby Blum