First and foremost, I hope that everyone takes advantage of their democratic opportunity and responsibility by voting in this (and every) election. And when voting, I encourage you to vote for Herb Olson to represent “us” in the Vermont House of Representatives.

I first met Herb at the MAUSD Annual Budget meeting in early 2020. He passionately pushed the MAUSD Board and superintendent to specifically explain how their proposed budget would directly support all students in the district, especially those with extra need. Shortly after this, the world retracted into the Covid pandemic, I joined the MAUSD Board, and our meetings entered the two-dimensional world of Zoom.

From my first official meeting to my last, Herb was there continuing to push the district leadership to “do better” for our students, our educators and staff at the line of scrimmage, and our community schools. There were many meetings with hours-long executive sessions, and when the board reentered public session, there was Herb all alone, ready to provide feedback during his one opportunity of public comment. Each time Herb spoke, he represented what I had been hearing from community members about the district. Herb spoke in a thoughtful and constructive manner that pushed the board to be better and do better.

Herb is an active and compassionate community member. He is a critical thinker with the courage and competence to ask difficult questions, deliver constructive criticism, and contemplate pragmatic solutions. I have seen Herb signs next to John Rodgers signs in one yard and David Zuckerman in the next. I believe that this is the case, because Herb represents who the Addison-4 District is as “a whole.” I firmly believe that Herb has the courage and conviction to represent “us” in Montpelier and not the whims of one person or party.

Thank you for voting!

Rob Backlund

Lincoln