As Election Day approaches, I urge Addison-3 voters to support the re-election of Matt Birong and Diane Lanpher. In times as challenging as these, we need leaders with experience, proven leadership, and a deep understanding of the complex issues facing our state.

Matt and Diane have proven time and again that they are committed to tackling critical issues like healthcare, housing and education. Their leadership in the House has been essential and changing direction now would risk undoing the progress already underway. We need to focus on what’s working while continuing to address what still needs to be fixed. Now is not the time to start over with fresh faces who lack Matt and Diane’s depth of experience.

Matt Birong is already taking meaningful action to improve public education in Vermont. He’s working on new legislation to overhaul how the system operates, aiming to better serve students while ensuring the system is sustainable for communities. This kind of effort doesn’t happen overnight. It requires time, collaboration, and knowledge — all of which Matt and Diane bring to the table.

Diane Lanpher’s steady leadership has been instrumental in navigating tough budgetary challenges and pushing for affordable housing initiatives. Her experience in balancing fiscal responsibility with compassion is a rare skill and it has served us well during uncertain times.

With Vermont still grappling with critical reforms in healthcare, housing, and education, we need continuity, not disruption. Matt Birong and Diane Lanpher are the right people to continue this work; their re-election will provide stability when it is needed most.

Let’s not derail the progress being made. I hope you will join me in voting to re-elect Matt Birong and Diane Lanpher — leaders who are ready to keep working on our behalf.

Mark Koenig, Vergennes