I attended the Addison County Senate forum held at Bristol’s Holley Hall on Thursday, October 10. Unfortunately, this forum was not recorded so I would like to relate some of my impressions. Seeing many lawn signs supporting Mr. Heffernan propelled me to learn more about him. I’m glad I did.

First impression: three of the four candidates presented themselves very well. Mr. Heffernan didn’t get the memo to dress to impress for the Senatorial role he is seeking, nor did he have any ability to clearly communicate any solutions to his grievances. He repeated the same answer for all questions posed and even suggested students learn “only reading and ‘rithmetic and skip all the rest” when asked how he would lower the education budget.

Second, he read directly from his web page to introduce himself to the audience. He did not prepare anything new for us to learn.

Third, one-third of his funding comes from the Burlington area. What did he say to these folks to convince them to support his candidacy when he failed at convincing those of us in attendance that he is capable of the job?

Fourth, he stated his proudest moment was helping folks during a severe winter storm as a member of the National Guard, but doesn’t believe government can help folks in other capacities.

Mr. Heffernan may be a nice guy but is sorely uneducated about the role and responsibilities he is seeking. Vermont has 30 Senate positions. Asking for a Senate seat without a résumé in another government, school board, or selectboard position does not qualify him to represent us effectively.

Addison County citizens are in great hands with our current state senators, Chris Bray and Ruth Hardy. Their ability to educate us on how budgets, bills and the legislative process works was greatly appreciated. Both work diligently on committees not only during the Legislative assembly but throughout the year.

While legislators receive a small salary for the weeks the assembly is in session, compensation for work done outside this calendar has not been previously available. This dedication and work ethic from Senators Bray and Hardy is commendable and is deserving of our votes.

Marianne Eaton

New Haven