Phil Scott thanks supporters, looks ahead after primary win
26 Aug 2010
After receiving word Tuesday night that he had won the Republican primary in the Lieutenant Governor’s race, Senator Phil Scott thanked his supporters and turned his attention to the next phase of the campaign.
“I’m thrilled that the voters have chosen me to represent the Republican Party in the Lieutenant Governor’s race in November, and I’d like to thank everyone who supported my campaign with their time, their financial contribution, and their vote,” Scott said.
“I also think the success of my primary campaign, and my strong grassroots support from Republicans, Democrats and Independents alike, showed that I can effectively represent a much broader segment of Vermonters than just the so-called ‘Republican Party faithful,’” he continued. “I heard from voters who took a Republican ballot for the first time ever this week in order to vote for me.”
Among his strongest and most vocal supporters throughout the primary race was Senator Dick Mazza, a prominent Democrat, who serves with Phil Scott on the Institutions and Transportation Committees.
“In a state where so many of us call ourselves Independents, I think my style of leadership and my ability to work with all sides definitely appeals to that independent spirit, and is just what we need to take Vermont forward,” Scott said.
One of the cornerstones of Scott’s primary campaign was his Race to Victory Tour, where he traveled the state to reach out to disenfranchised voters to bring them back into the process. The tour raised awareness of the early primary election date, distributed hundreds of early voting and registration forms, and signed up many new voters.
“I’m very proud of those efforts, and that’s something I intend to continue between now and November, and beyond,” Scott said. “So many Vermonters feel left out and feel their voice doesn’t matter in Montpelier. As Lieutenant Governor – and in the meantime, as a candidate – I intend to change that by reaching out to them, seeking their input, and involving them in the important public discussions about the best ways to create more jobs and make Vermont a more affordable place,” he said.
Phil Scott also thanked his primary opponent, Mark Snelling, for his statement of support Tuesday night. “Mark has said he will work hard to ensure that we have another victory in the general election, and I’m very appreciative of that offer. Mark has a lot to bring to the table, and I look forward to working with him to bring our common values to the Lieutenant Governor’s office.”
Addison Independent Endorses Phil Scott
23 Aug 2010
From Angelo Lynn of the Addison Independent
Published Aug. 23, 2010
In the Republican race, Republicans are fortunate to have two capable candidates to choose from. Mark Snelling embodies a name synonymous with strong leadership with a background steeped in business experience and community service. Like his dad, Gov. Dick Snelling, and his mom, Barbara Snelling, Mark has a sincere interest to help the state move toward a more prosperous and healthy future, and he embraces the realistic view that not all things will be achievable in the short term. In fact, he often says that the goal is to be satisfied to have moved the direction the state is moving by a few degrees on the compass within any given number of years, but not to over-promise or expect lightning-fast shifts in policy or results.
On that score his theory may be right, but it’s crucial to have crystal clear goals and a clear vision of where the state needs to go if the biggest issues of the day are to be addressed with candor and foresight. Moreover, it’s imperative the next lieutenant governor be familiar with the legislators who are enmeshed in the daily action of the Legislature with a clear understanding of policy details as well as the broad vision to be an effective leader of the Senate. That will be doubly important next session as three key players in the Senate (Doug Racine, Peter Shumlin and Susan Bartlett) will not return, thus leaving a huge gap in Senate leadership. Snelling, who made an effort to be a presence in the legislative halls last session, will nonetheless have much to learn to get up to speed on the process and the details.
Phil Scott, on the other hand, is a proven legislative leader who has shown a knack for identifying problems and addressing them in a forthright and collaborative manner that has helped the Legislature achieve significant progress on several issues in his 10 years in the Senate. Scott, 52, is a small-businessman turned hands-on legislator born out of the frustration of dealing with a laborious permitting process under Act 250. Not that he is against Act 250, but that he has seen the headaches duplications in the permitting process have caused and still sees a need (even after the last improvements) to keep working to make the process more effective.
We also like that Scott is a Vermonter who has pulled himself up by his own bootstraps to a successful business career as well as a race -car driver at Thunder Road. His personal story is unique and taps into a spirit of independence and perseverance that perfectly fits his penchant for self-reliance rather than turning to the government for help.
Finally, bipartisan support for Scott is widespread with colleagues praising his ability to work with both sides of the political aisle to reach compromises and get measures passed.
All are important traits that make Scott the pick in this race.
Get Out The Vote Radio Ad
23 Aug 2010
Phil Scott aired a final “Get Out The Vote” radio message today. Listen to the ad here on YouTube.
Phil Scott reports a strong campaign finish
21 Aug 2010
Lieutenant Governor candidate Phil Scott finishes his primary campaign this week in a strong position. Scott has received several key endorsements, and he also shows the strongest second-period fundraising performance in the Lt. Governor’s race.
Scott’s August campaign filing indicated he had raised the most money of all the Lt. Governor candidates in the final month of the primary race. Contributions for the reporting period ending August 17 put Scott at the top, with $35,860. His Republican primary opponent raised $12,934 this period. Democrat Steve Howard raised $9,449, and Democrat Chris Bray raised $2,815.
Scott’s 10 years of service in the Vermont Senate, his experience as a hard-working business owner, and his record of standing up for business interests, lower taxes, and the rights and freedoms of all Vermonters, also earned him endorsements from several newspapers and industry groups (listed below).
Phil Scott was both proud of and humbled by the tremendous support he has received, not only from the press, business leaders, and current leaders in Vermont politics, but also from a groundswell of regular people. “I want to thank my 1,850 fans on Facebook, and the 4,000-plus Vermonters in all parts of the state who have put my campaign signs on their property,” Scott said. “From day one, we promised to run a positive campaign that’s a model for respect, and I’m incredibly proud that so many Vermonters decided to come along with us for the ride.”
Phil Scott’s endorsements have included:
St. Albans Messenger
“In the Republican primary for Lieutenant Governor the choice is between Phil Scott and Mark Snelling. Mr. Snelling comes from a life of privilege, Mr. Scott does not. … Mr. Scott has served for 10 years in the Vermont Senate, and would not need tutoring. Mr. Snelling hasn’t, and would. Mr. Scott is the candidate who best suits our times and our needs.”
Manchester Journal
“After some amount of reflection, we’re going to go with state Senator Phil Scott here. Being willing to be one of just four senators to vote in favor of Vermont Yankee earlier this year shows grit and courage. Mark Snelling has an interesting background, but a term or two in the statehouse would strengthen him further.”
National Rifle Association
“This rating is a reflection of your strong and vocal support of our right to keep and bear arms while serving in the Vermont General Assembly. Our members will interpret your ‘A’ rating and endorsement to mean that you are a pro-Second Amendment, pro-hunting legislator who has an excellent voting record on all critical NRA issues.”
Associated General Contractors of VT
“Phil Scott is one of us. He’s a contractor himself and owner of DuBois Construction in Middlesex. He obviously understands the needs and concerns of our industry, and he’s fought hard for us and our employees in Montpelier throughout his 10 years in the Vermont Senate.”
Vermont Vehicle and Automotive Distributors Association
“We appreciate Phil Scott’s common sense approach on complicated and sometimes contentious issues before the Transportation Committee. He knows how to run a business, manage a budget, and literally how to change the tires if the wheels come off the car. We think Phil would be an exceptional co-pilot for Vermont’s next Governor.”
Scott has also received the public support of 15 Vermont legislators, including the Minority Leaders in both the House and Senate. Among them:
Rep. Heidi Scheuermann, Stowe:
“What I admire most about Phil Scott is his humility. A true leader is one who not only has the confidence and conviction to achieve results, but who knows it’s more important to do the job than to get credit. Phil knows why he is in the Legislature and who he’s representing. He just wants to get the job done for Vermonters.”
Rep. Adam Howard, Cambridge:
“Having served with Phil Scott on the House-Senate Transportation Conference Committee this year, I was struck by what an effective leader Phil is because of his non-partisan nature. His only agenda was wanting to make the best policy he could. In his subtle and understated way, he owned the room, and he commanded the respect of both the Democrats and the Republicans at the table.”
Rep. Tom Koch, Barre Town:
“I’m endorsing Phil Scott because, in 10 years of working with him in the Statehouse, I have come to know him as a diligent, straightforward legislator who listens to all sides first and then makes his decisions based on what his conscience tells him is the right thing to do. I also believe he is the strongest candidate in the race and will attract the votes of Democrats and Independents in the general election.”
Rep. Patty O’Donnell, Vernon:
“Phil Scott is very dedicated to the state of Vermont, and he has a strong sense of fairness and honesty. He’s not afraid to speak up, even when the majority disagrees, if he feels it’s the best thing for Vermont. This spring, he voted to protect the 650 Vermonters who work at Vermont Yankee, and he’ll continue to fight for working Vermonters as Lieutenant Governor.”
Sen. Kevin Mullin, Rutland:
“Phil’s experience as a small businessman has always been a real plus in the legislature, where he is always looking for opportunities to make Vermont more affordable for new enterprise. As a business owner, Phil also knows how to budget and how to say no when necessary. There is no question, Phil is the best man for the job.”
Emerson Lynn of the St. Albans Messenger endorses Phil Scott
19 Aug 2010
In the Republican primary for Lieutenant Governor the choice is between Phil Scott and Mark Snelling. Mr. Snelling comes from a life of privilege, Mr. Scott does not. Mr. Scott has worked a life with dirt underneath the fingernails. Mr. Snelling has worked the corporate world. Mr. Scott has served for 10 years in the Vermont Senate, and would not need tutoring. Mr. Snelling hasn’t, and would.
Both candidates are qualified to be Lieutenant Governor, both ably, but Mr. Scott is the candidate who best suits our times and our needs.
His business world pragmatism is what convinces us. He understands what it’s like to start a business. He understands the compromises and the perils forced by a competitive marketplace. But he also understands it’s not enough to stand on the outside circle and complain. If the issue is important enough, get involved. And he has. He’s not running for Lieutenant Governor as a place to begin his quest, it’s more a culminating position. He’s been in the Senate. He wants to help complete what he began.
He also has an admirable sense of mission. He’s terrified as to how unable we have become in fending for ourselves. We don’t make things here. We don’t take care of ourselves. We can’t fix what’s broken. As he says, we’ve lost our sense of self-reliance.
What motivates him is that he understands Vermont is in a better position than most states, and that our small population allows us to move more nimbly and more quickly than others. What he wants is for us to do it, and to depend less on others. He feels that way about energy. He feels that way about our transportation system. He feels that way about health care. And, in general, he feels that way about community service, it’s better for one neighbor to help another than it is to depend on Montpelier.
It’s also telling that he has garnered so much support from both sides of the political aisle. Dick Mazza, a Democrat and one of the Senates most respected members, is one of Mr. Scott’s key supporters. Why? Because he sees Mr. Scott as someone capable of working with both Republicans and Democrats.
This bipartisanship will be essential considering the fact that next years Senate will be absent Senate Pro Tempore Peter Shumlin, Appropriations Committee Chair Susan Bartlett, and Health and Welfare Committee Chair Doug Racine. This loss of leadership will make the Lieutenant Governor’s position as presiding officer all the more important.
Mr. Scott’s legislative experience and his common touch with Vermonters makes him the best choice.
By Emerson Lynn, St. Albans Messenger
Manchester Journal Endorses Phil Scott
19 Aug 2010
The Manchester Journal published their endorsements on Thursday, August 19. Below is the paragraph of that editorial that pertains to our race.
Lt. Governor: (Republican): Both Phil Scott and Mark Snelling offer compelling narratives and reasons to support them. After some amount of reflection, we’re going to go with state Senator Phil Scott here. Being willing to be one of just four senators to vote in favor of Vermont Yankee earlier this year shows grit and courage. Mark Snelling has an interesting background, but a term or two in the statehouse would strengthen him further.
National Rifle Association endorses Phil Scott
17 Aug 2010
Senator Phil Scott received word today that he has earned the official endorsement of the National Rifle Association in the Republican primary race for Lieutenant Governor.
The endorsement, and its accompanying “A” rating – the NRA’s highest possible grade – were based on the results of a candidate survey conducted earlier this year, as well as Senator Scott’s voting record on issues relating to gun ownership and hunting rights.
Rebecca Williams, the NRA’s Vermont State Liaison, said in a letter, “This rating is a reflection of your strong and vocal support of our right to keep and bear arms while serving in the Vermont General Assembly. Our members will interpret your ‘A’ rating and endorsement to mean that you are a pro-Second Amendment, pro-hunting legislator who has an excellent voting record on all critical NRA issues.”
Senator Scott was pleased with the support. “The NRA’s endorsement helps me spread the word about my record of supporting hunting and gun ownership rights in Vermont,” he said. “As an avid sportsman, I’ve fought hard throughout my 10 years in the Senate to ensure that future generations of Vermonters have the same opportunities I had when I was growing up, to get out and enjoy our outdoor traditions. To do that, we as legislators and voters need to actively promote and protect those rights. I appreciate the NRA’s efforts to help us do just that, and I thank them for their endorsement.”
Phil Scott is a strong proponent of public access to public land, including motorized access. He led the charge to resurrect Vermont’s dormant timber harvesting program for state lands, recognizing the fact that proper land management enhances the health and abundance of wildlife populations. Scott also voted for the apprentice hunting license program, to allow young people to try hunting for one year with an adult mentor without taking the hunter safety course.
In recognition of these and many other hunting-related efforts, Scott also received the public support of many prominent leaders in Vermont’s hunting and fishing communities. James Ehlers, Publisher Emeritus of Outdoors Magazine, said of Phil Scott: “Over the years, I’ve dealt with a number of politicians. I can easily say that Senator Phil Scott’s support of conservation efforts, the outdoor heritage, and public access to our resources was always stalwart. I would expect nothing less of Phil Scott in the future. Regardless of the office or title he holds, he knows what matters to Vermonters.”
John Laberge, Owner-Producer of the Yankee Sportsman’s Classic Show, expressed similar sentiments. “Hunting is a major part of the Vermont identity and rural economy. Sportsmen count Phil Scott as one of their own, and as someone to go to whenever help is needed.”
"VT Digger" Candidate Profile
16 Aug 2010
In Profile: ‘Freedom and Unity’ could be Phil Scott’s slogan in lite gov race
By Kirk Kardashian on August 16, 2010
Sen. Phil Scott happens to share a birthday with President Barack Obama and NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon. It’s fitting for someone who’s as well known in the Statehouse warrens as he is on the tarmac at Thunder Road. Though Scott is a Republican candidate for lieutenant governor, his record on issues and his history of bipartisanship make him difficult to categorize in the pat language of politics. But if you scratch down to the bedrock of his beliefs, one thing becomes clear: He thinks it’s time for Vermont to return to its roots of Yankee ingenuity and independence, to become a place where self-reliance is more often augmented by neighborliness than government.
Given Scott’s family and personal history, it’s no surprise he feels this way. His father — known as Scotty —was a tank driver in the D-Day invasion. He lost both of his legs when his tank ran over a landmine. Scotty spent two years recovering at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and then returned to Vermont and had a cabin built for himself on Lake Elmore. He regularly called in his grocery orders at the Lake Elmore General Store and ended up marrying the girl who delivered them to him. They had three boys and settled in Barre. Scotty, a truck driver before World War II, worked for the highway department the rest of his life, issuing permits for oversized trucks.
Though Phil Scott, 52, grew up with a father in a wheelchair, he says he never thought of his dad’s disability as abnormal, or as an impediment to a regular childhood. Scotty took his kids camping, set up fishing trips and played catch with them. That sort of perseverance and can-do ethic, if it wasn’t already in Scott’s DNA, was passed on to him through his father’s example.
But Scotty didn’t see his kids reach adulthood — he died when Phil was 11 years old.
Luckily, the boy’s extended family stepped in to help raise the brothers. An uncle taught him how to hunt and bought him his first shotgun. Another uncle taught him to ride snowmobiles, which begat Scott’s passion for motor sports. An aunt had a farm in Elmore and introduced him to the agrarian lifestyle. He’d spend the weekends with relatives, and so learned how to pack his bags and, to a certain degree, take care of himself. “I guess I was pretty independent from a young age,” he recalls.
After graduating from Spaulding High School, Scott attended the University of Vermont, with plans to become a shop teacher. After he got his diploma at UVM, he opened up a motorcycle shop in Morrisville, and delivered fuel oil, and worked as a plumber, welder and carpenter to make ends meet. Eventually, the motorcycle operation became successful enough for an expansion on property owned by Howard Manosh. Scott obtained a local zoning permit and was nearly finished with construction of the new building when he received a cease-and-desist order from the regional Act 250 commission. “I had no idea what an Act 250 permit was,” he says, “or why you had to have one.”
Up until that point, Scott had only a minor interest in politics. But the Act 250 order changed that. He spent a year getting the permit, but by the time he received it, he had been offered a job with his uncle’s firm, DuBois Construction, Inc. So he scrapped the bike shop plan and joined DuBois, later becoming a co-owner of the business. He eventually settled in Berlin with his wife and two children.
With his day-to-day involvement with state permits on job sites, he “started to complain more and more about what they were doing to me in Montpelier,” he says. “Finally, I just looked myself in the mirror and thought, maybe I should be part of the solution.”
By that time — the late 1990s — Scott had already made a name for himself as a gifted car racer at Thunder Road. His name recognition helped him win his first race for state Senate. “But it didn’t keep me there,” he says. “You have to prove yourself, and I’ve never been afraid to work.”
His first term in the Senate, he sat on the Land Use Permitting Process Interim Committee. It took a year and a half to get changes to Act 250 through both the House and the Senate, and the final bill was a result of substantial compromises on both sides. Scott thinks land use permitting still needs the legislature’s attention. “Act 250 is fine, in a way,” he says, “but it’s all the other permits that are needed as well. There are so many — local, state, federal — and they don’t all work together, and sometimes there’s a lot of duplication.”
Scott’s personal experiences have informed his votes in the Senate on other issues. One example is physician-assisted suicide. At first, he says, he was in favor of giving people the right to make the choice to die. But after hearing the impassioned pleas from those opposed to physician-assisted suicide, and considering his father’s experience in Walter Reed, where he came very close to dying from hepatitis, Scott changed his mind. “Had he been given that choice then,” he says of his father, “he might have given up. And I wouldn’t be here, and my kids wouldn’t be here.” He explains that the gravely ill don’t always know what they want, and that “we can’t play God.”
In his 10 years in the Senate, Scott has served on the Natural Resources Committee, the Institutions Committee (he’s the chair) and the Transportation Committee (he’s the vice-chair). Given that the Senate will lose Peter Shumlin, Doug Racine, Sue Bartlett, and Ed Flanagan this year, Scott thinks that his experience in the chamber and his knowledge of the players make him the most qualified candidate for lieutenant governor.
The statutory salary for lieutenant governor is $63,701. The primary duties are to preside over the Senate and fill in in the governor’s absence. Scott plans to use the position to promote the importance of self-responsibility.
“We think of ourselves as being independent,” he says, “that we have Yankee ingenuity, and I think we’ve lost that.”
What this means, from an energy perspective, is that Scott wants to reduce the state’s reliance on foreign oil. He’s a supporter of nuclear energy from Vermont Yankee, and he believes Vermont should have a broad portfolio of wind, solar and biomass generation.
In the realm of health care, self-responsibility translates into prevention coupled with health savings accounts, which he describes as “one tool that can work.”
More broadly, Scott is in favor of volunteerism as a substitute for government. He cites the Wheels for Warmth program he started, which provides 10,000 used tires to Vermonters in need, as an example of the potential of private fundraising. “We did all this without any government help,” he says. “We did it ourselves. I think Vermonters have always wanted to help their neighbors, but they don’t always know how.”
Scott has been endorsed by politicians from both sides of the aisle. Heidi Scheuermann, a Republican representative from Stowe, supports Scott because “he’s a different kind of politician,” she says. “He’s just there to get the job done.” She notes that he doesn’t have an overriding political ideology, but works hard, is humble and has a style that can bridge partisan gaps. What Scheuermann hopes is that Scott makes the budget and education spending his first priorities in office. “We’re going to need to make some tough decisions,” she says, “and institute a tax code that encourages job growth. And we can’t dismantle schools while facing huge tax increases.”
Republican Sen. Bill Doyle knew Scott before he joined the Senate, and echoes Scheuermann’s thoughts on his effectiveness as a legislator. “If there’s a job that has to be done,” he says, “he’ll sweep the room or anything else that it takes.” For Doyle, the most important issue in the next few years is job growth, which he says can happen through workforce training, cell-phone service and broadband Internet, and education. “He knows everyone already,” Doyle says, “so he can hit the ground running.”
One of the most well-known relationships in the Senate is that between Scott and Dick Mazza, a Democrat from Colchester. They’ve worked closely together for all of Scott’s 10 years in the Senate, and now serve together on the Transportation and Institutions Committees. In a break from party loyalty, Mazza is supporting Scott’s bid for lieutenant governor, mostly because Mazza believes Scott “is able to get along with both parties,” he says. “Vermonters want to hear about people getting along to work through issues.”
Such comity will be especially important in the upcoming legislative session, Mazza explains, because there will be new chairs of the Appropriations and Health and Welfare Committees. The former committee will be tasked with solving the state’s budget crisis, while the latter will tackle the thorny area of health care reform and Vermont’s role in the new federal system. Mazza’s impression is that many senators would like to see Scott become the lieutenant governor because “no one else has as much experience,” he says.
Scott’s friendship with Mazza is one reason why Scott says he’s “very hard to categorize.” Yet another is his personal interests. He notes that he’s in construction, races stock cars, and hunts, which might put him firmly in a Republican, pro-business box. But on the other hand, he rides his bike 4,000 miles a summer, hikes regularly and snowshoes in the winter, giving him an appreciation of nature more in line with liberals.
“I grew up here. I love Vermont,” he says. “I appreciate that we aren’t overdeveloped, and I don’t want us to be. I think there’s got to be balance.” The question is whether Vermonters feel comfortable with Scott’s idea of balance. The voters will decide soon.
Senator Peg Flory & Rep. Janice Peaslee endorse Phil Scott
12 Aug 2010
State Senator Margaret “Peg” Flory of Rutland County and Rep. Janice Peaslee of Guildhall have added their names to the growing list of Senators and Representatives from all over Vermont who are endorsing Phil Scott for Lieutenant Governor.
“Phil Scott shares my goals of supporting business development, improving Vermont’s roads and bridges, reducing tax burdens, and managing state budgets thoughtfully and frugally,” said Peg Flory. “Better yet, he’s proven it with his voting record during his 10 years of service in the Vermont State Senate. I’m honored to have served with Phil in the Senate, and he will be my choice for Lieutenant Governor.”
Flory has long been an advocate for improving transportation systems, particularly roads and bridges in the Rutland corridor. In announcing her endorsement, she praised Phil Scott in particular for his work as the Vice Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee. “Phil has always understood the importance of investing in all of Vermont’s transportation networks – be they safe roads, solid bridges, or high speed internet communications systems for online traffic,” she said. “Those are the investments that support business development and take our state forward.”
Janice Peaslee, a veteran Representative who has served with Phil Scott in the Legislature for the last decade, stressed Senator Scott’s experience and integrity. “I have had the opportunity of working with Phil in the Legislature, and know him to be a man of integrity, fairness and dedication. His ten years of experience as a Senator will serve him well in the Lieutenant Governor’s role. Phil Scott is the right man for the job,” Peaslee said.
Phil Scott thanked both of his legislative colleagues for their support. “Those who have served with me in the Legislature are perhaps in the best position to comment on my record and my ability to serve Vermont as our next Lieutenant Governor,” he said. “I’m honored that so many of my colleagues have endorsed me for the job. It means a great deal, and it says a lot about the momentum my campaign has picked up all around the state.”
Scott has so far received endorsements from 11 legislators, including the House and Senate Minority Leaders, Rep. Patti Komline and Senator Bill Doyle. Scott has also been endorsed by the Vermont Vehicle and Automotive Distributors Association, as well as several well-known leaders in the hunting and fishing community, including John Laberge, Owner-Producer of the Yankee Sportsman’s Classic, and James Ehlers, Publisher Emeritus of Outdoors Magazine.
Reps. Heidi Scheuermann & Adam Howard endorse Phil Scott
06 Aug 2010
Representatives Heidi Scheuermann of Stowe and Adam Howard of Cambridge today issued powerful statements of support for Phil Scott in his bid for Lieutenant Governor. Both representatives agreed that Scott’s nonpartisan leadership style makes him ideally suited for the legislative coalition-building that’s required of Vermont’s Lieutenant Governor.
“Phil is my ‘go-to guy’ in the Senate. He knows how to get things done, and is able to bridge political gaps to make things happen,” Scheuermann said. “What I admire most about Phil Scott is his humility. A true leader is one who not only has the confidence and conviction to achieve results, but who knows it’s more important to do the job than to get credit. Phil knows why he is in the Legislature and who he’s representing. He just wants to get the job done for Vermonters.”
Howard agreed. “Having served with Phil Scott on the House-Senate Transportation Conference Committee this year, I was struck by what an effective leader Phil is because of his non-partisan nature. His only agenda was wanting to make the best policy he could. In his subtle and understated way, he owned the room, and he commanded the respect of both the Democrats and the Republicans at the table. That’s a rare and powerful thing, and that’s why I support Phil Scott for Lieutenant Governor.”
Phil Scott, who has represented Washington County in the Vermont Senate for the last 10 years, is one of only two Republican committee chairs in the Democratically-controlled Senate. He serves as Chair of the Institutions Committee, as well as Vice Chair of the Transportation Committee.
“I think everybody wins when we put ego aside and work together, because we get things done,” said Phil Scott. “Although my style of leadership brings great benefit to our state, it isn’t something that most ‘regular Vermonters’ have a chance to see firsthand. So I appreciate the public statements from Adam, Heidi, and the many other legislators who have endorsed me.”
Rep. Tom Koch endorses Phil Scott
05 Aug 2010
State Senator Phil Scott, candidate for Lieutenant Governor, today received another key legislative endorsement, as Representative Tom Koch of Barre Town signed on as a supporter of the Scott campaign and, in a letter to his House and Senate colleagues, encouraged fellow legislators to do the same.
“I’m endorsing Phil Scott because, in 10 years of working with him in the Statehouse, I have come to know him as a diligent, straightforward legislator who listens to all sides first and then makes his decisions based on what his conscience tells him is the right thing to do. I also believe he is the strongest candidate in the race and will attract the votes of Democrats and Independents in the general election,” said Koch, a 9-term legislator who serves on the House Judiciary Committee and the House Rules Committee.
Koch cited Scott’s legislative experience and his ability to work with members of all parties. “He’s been a positive part of the process for 10 years, and he’s one of only three Republican chairs in the building. He’s effective, he’s open, he’s hardworking, and he’s trustworthy. As the successful owner of a construction business, Phil Scott has the respect not only of those who have engaged his services, but also of the workers who are his employees, and other business owners who are his competitors,” Koch noted.
In a letter he sent to House and Senate members this week, Koch encouraged his fellow legislators to come out in support of Phil Scott before the August 24 primary. He said that having strong Republicans at the top of the ticket in November would be important to Republican legislative candidates across the state, and that it would help all of them to have Phil Scott as the Republican nominee for Lt. Governor.
Scott said he was honored to have received such a vote of confidence from Rep. Koch. “When Tom talks, people listen,” Scott said. “His principled voting record and his articulate voice on the House floor have earned him a great deal of respect among his colleagues. So to have Tom not only endorse me — but also make a special effort to encourage other legislators to do the same — means a great deal to my campaign, and to me personally,” Scott said.
Associated General Contractors of VT endorses Phil Scott
04 Aug 2010
Montpelier, VT – State Senator Phil Scott received word today that he has earned the endorsement of the Associated General Contractors of Vermont. The AGC will make the announcement, and present a contribution in conjunction with other contractors to the Phil Scott campaign, at their annual golf tournament tomorrow at the Lake Morey Resort.
“Phil Scott is one of us,” said Cathy Voyer, Executive Vice President of the AGC. “He’s a contractor himself and owner of DuBois Construction in Middlesex. He obviously understands the needs and concerns of our industry, and he’s fought hard for us and our employees in Montpelier throughout his 10 years in the Vermont Senate.”
“More importantly, Phil Scott has demonstrated that he can represent the interests of all of his constituents, not just those in his industry or those he knows well,” Voyer continued. “That’s a huge factor in our endorsement. Phil Scott has been a strong advocate for businesses of all types, from independent retailers to Vermont Yankee. He’s protected the rights of sporting and outdoor groups. He started the Wheels for Warmth program to help low-income Vermonters heat their homes. He’s even shoveled off farmers’ roofs during heavy snowstorms. Whether we’re talking about representation in the Legislature or helping his community, he’s there for everybody.”
Scott thanked the AGC for their support. “Vermont’s contractors and their employees are literally the people who are building our state. They will be the ones to take our state forward with better roads and bridges, more affordable housing, and new and improved facilities for growing businesses. These are goals I share, and I’m thrilled to have them on my campaign team,” Scott said.
The Associated General Contractors of Vermont was founded in 1961, and represents the interests of more than 140 active construction-industry and affiliate members, including equipment and materials suppliers, insurance companies, bonding firms, financial institutions, and consultants.
Vermont lieutenant governor race in the shadows
02 Aug 2010
Article published August 2, 2010
By Nancy Remsen, Free Press Staff Writer
Three pairs of candidates are vying to be on the November ballot for the statewide office one politician described as Vermont’s “quirkiest:”
lieutenant governor.
The job of the lieutenant governor is to take the reins of government should a governor become incapacitated or die, to preside over the Senate when it meets, and — well, whatever else the lieutenant governor chooses to do to earn the position’s annual statutory salary of $63,701.
“You have authority over no one, and no one has authority over you,” said Rep. Christopher Bray of New Haven, source of the “quirky” comment. Bray faces fellow Rep. Steve Howard of Rutland in the upcoming Democratic primary for lieutenant governor.
“I see it as a big opportunity,” Bray said of the blank-slate portion of the job.
So does Howard, his rival, along with both Republican candidates — Sen. Phil Scott of Berlin and Mark Snelling of Starksboro — and the pair running in the Progressive primary — Boots Wardinski of Newbury and Marjorie Powell of Montpelier.
However, many voters might have no idea what these six would like to do if elected lieutenant governor, because campaigning for this office has been overshadowed by the fanfare of the five-way contest to determine this year’s Democratic candidate for governor.
“These candidates are sort of flying under the radar,” said Eric Davis, political analyst and retired Middlebury College political-science professor. “The advantage is going to go to the candidates who have higher name recognition.”
Davis gave Snelling the edge in the name game because of his family’s long history in Vermont politics. Howard, he noted, “has worked in the Democratic vineyards for a long time” and would be known among party regulars.
Voters will winnow the field of six to three lieutenant-governor candidates Aug. 24.
At first glance the Republican race would seem to be a contest between two businessmen — but the pair agree they couldn’t be more different despite similar professions.
Scott might be better known as a winning stock-car driver at Thunder Road than as co-owner of DuBois Construction. He arrived at a recent candidate’s forum in a black Ford pickup tricked out in green with a bold “Race to Victory” declaration on the side doors.
“People can connect with me,” said Scott, who describes his style as hands-on. Even in business, he said, he’s as likely to drive a truck or mop the floor as give the orders.
Scott cites his government experience as an important difference. He’s been in the Senate for a decade and in leadership roles in recent years despite being a epublican in a Democrat-dominated Senate.
“I understand the legislative process. I know how it works and how it doesn’t work,” Scott said. Given the problems facing the state and the extensive turnover of leadership that will take place with a new governor, he said, “we need people who can hit the ground running.”
Snelling has never run for public office, but he comes from a long line of Snellings who have, and he’s spent plenty of time working behind the scenes on their campaigns. He’s the son of the late Gov. Richard Snelling and former Lt. Gov. Barbara Snelling, and the brother of Sen. Diane Snelling.
The Snelling name helps, he acknowledged, but added he has made a name for himself during three decades of business and involvement with organizations such as the Vermont Land Trust, Vermont Youth Conservation Corps and Housing Vermont. Casting himself as a government outsider, Snelling said, “I bring a perspective that is non-Senate, non-Montpelier.”
As for spare-time passions, Snelling would rather grasp the tiller of a sailboat than steer a race car.
Scott would use the bully pulpit of the lieutenant governor’s office to promote renewed self-reliance. He would push initiatives to meet more of the state’s energy and food needs closer to home. He would try to persuade people to take better care of themselves and their neighbors instead of relying on government.
“When you rely on the rest of the world, it is a sense of empowerment over you,” he said.
Snelling would focus on encouraging policies and discipline in government to create a more fertile environment for business growth. “I’m advocating streamlining of state government,” he said. “Clearly we need to cut our spending. We need to learn to be lean, learn to be efficient. That is the only way we are going to put ourselves in a position to cut taxes.”
Scott has a reputation as a politician who works across party lines. One of his best friends, politically and personally, is Sen. Dick Mazza, D-Chittenden/Grand Isle.
“Some have questioned my relationship with Sen. Mazza,” Scott said. “Dick Mazza has so much common sense and so much integrity. I’m not going to distance myself from people I hold in such high regard.”
“Once the election is over, I happen to think you are working for the people,” Scott added. “I’m not beholden to the party. I’m beholden to the people of Vermont.”
While Scott said he would give whoever became governor his support because “you have to respect the decision by the people,” Snelling hinted he would be willing to challenge an administration if he disagreed.
“I’m willing to stand up and shout from the rooftops and say this is what we should be doing,” Snelling said. “I’m not a shy, quiet guy. I’m also not a guy who tries to push people around. I enjoy trying to convince people of my ideas.”
The first campaign finance report for this race showed Snelling with $31,000 more in cash and in-kind contributions than Scott had. Part of the difference is that Snelling loaned his campaign $20,000, and his mother contributed $8,000.
“We have seen time and time again the person who raises the most money doesn’t necessarily win,” Scott said.
Still, money has allowed Snelling to rain mail down on likely Republican voters.
Scott’s core supporters aren’t necessarily party regulars, he said: “The challenge for me is to get my supporters to vote.”
Howard looked into the Channel 17 camera and told viewers, “Vermont needs a fighter, and that’s why I’m running.”
He argues the middle class needs someone who is going to not only advocate on their behalf, but fight for them. His middle-class agenda would include pressing for a single-payer health-care system, he said.
“I liken my style to the way Bernie Sanders conducts himself in Congress,” Howard continued. “That is not to say I would be antagonistic.” Howard said he would hold town meetings throughout the state and make the lieutenant governor’s office “a center for grassroots action.”
When Bray got his chance to address Channel 17 viewers, he said the real choice in the Democratic primary for lieutenant governor “centers around that word ‘fight.’” He explained, “I’m just as passionate to get things done, but my mode is to bring people together to get things done.”
Bray’s focus as lieutenant governor would be to foster economic development centered on local energy, ocal food, local business. One of his ideas is to have the state sell “Freedom and Unity Bonds” to create a $1 billion Vermonter-to-Vermonter low-interest loan fund. The money could be borrowed for business and community development.
Bray said he also would press the next governor and legislators to do strategic planning to help the state accomplish goals.
“I would try to partner with the House members and senators, with the administration and agencies, and develop bills,” Bray said.
Howard said consensus-building doesn’t always work: “If you want to take on the big issues, you have got to be ready to take on some very powerful special interests and that requires a fighter.”
Howard and Bray both have served in the House, Howard for a dozen years in two stints during the past 18 years and Bray for the past four years. Howard’s committee assignments have included Transportation, Commerce, Institutions and most recently Ways and Means. Bray has served on the Agriculture Committee.
Howard said his longer tenure and varied committee assignments give him broader perspective. “That makes e better prepared for that office and to be a leader,” he said.
When Howard isn’t at the Statehouse, he is self-employed as a community organizer and fundraiser.
Howard got his start in politics as a teenager helping Madeleine Kunin’s gubernatorial campaign. He was elected to the House right out of college, helped recruit Democratic House candidates under two House speakers and became chairman of the Vermont Democratic Party at age 24.
Bray’s professional background is as diverse as his degrees. He has a bachelor’s in zoology and a master’s in English. He has taught English, was employed by insurance giant National Life, and worked on projects for IBM, Apple and Intel. He founded Common Ground Communications, which serves technical clients. He and his family also farm.
Bray’s first political foray was his run for the House in 2007. Howard said he helped Bray with his first campaign.
Comparing election records, Bray notes he has never lost an election — which he suggested made him a better bet for Democrats in the November election. He was victorious twice in a House district that’s home to many Republicans, he said. He also won election to the University of Vermont board of trustees with tri-partisan support of House members.
Howard, Bray noted, lost a 1998 bid to become a senator from Rutland County and lost a 2007 bid to become Rutland’s mayor.
“People care less about what offices I’ve run for than about what I’ve done in office,” Howard responded.
According to their July 15 campaign finance reports, Howard had more fundraising success than Bray. Bray as loaned his campaign $10,000 for total contributions of $27,000, compared with Howard’s $50,000.
“I’d rather run on my record than say I’ve raised the most money,” Bray said.
Howard countered that money mattered and so did endorsements from several labor organizations: “What that says to me is this is a candidate who has the grassroots support.”
Wardinski admits he’s not a Progressive, but said he ran in the Progressive primary to get news coverage for his agenda: agricultural and food security. Wardinski is a member of the Liberty Union Party. Minor parties don’t hold primaries, he said, so news organizations ignore their candidates.
Wardinski, an organic farmer and antiwar activist, said he would use the office of lieutenant governor to press for expansion of organic and diversified small farms.
He also would call attention to the need to scale back lifestyles to wean Vermonters from their dependency on foreign oil. “The state could play a role by providing incentives and disincentives,” he said, suggesting a high tax on motorized recreational vehicles such as snowmobiles.
Power, a Progressive, said she ran so voters could hear views from more than just Republican and Democratic candidates. She’s an advocate of a single-payer health-care system.
She doesn’t expect to spend any money campaigning and admits winning wasn’t her goal. She said in a radio interview she might drop out of the race after the primary, depending on who wins the other primary contests and what public policies they support.
Times Argus - Scott driven in run for Lieutenant Governor
30 Jul 2010
Article published Jul 30, 2010
By Louis Porter,Vermont Press Bureau
MONTPELIER – Except for the line of racing trophies along the wall, Phil Scott’s office in DuBois Construction, which he co-owns, could be any office at any metalworking, construction or general contracting firm in Vermont.
But the battered but serviceable desk in the building set back among the company’s lot – decorated with a couple pieces of retired construction equipment – is a fitting place for a candidate running to become lieutenant governor under the motto “common man, uncommon results”.
One of those uncommon results was Scott’s election in 2000 to the state senate, where he became – and has remained – the second Republican in a fairly liberal three-seat district in the Democratically controlled Senate. It was a surprise when he even made it to the General Election that year, given as a nearly complete newcomer to politics he was not expected to win in the Republican primary that year, Scott said.
“I think I had the respect of many who knew me” Scott said. “That propelled me into the position. It didn’t keep me there.”
What did keep him there – aided by his local celebrity status as a top stock car driver at Thunder Road – was doing what he said he would do, including working to reduce the transfer from the Transportation Fund to other needs and to balance the state’s capital budgets. Scott will face fellow Republican Mark Snelling in a GOP primary, and likely one of two Democrats, either Rep. Steve Howard or Rep. Chris Bray, in the General Election.
He first ran for the Legislature, Scott said, because “as a business owner I became more and more concerned about what ‘they’ were doing to us in Montpelier,” Scott said. He decided to either stop complaining or run, the 51-year-old Scott said.
When he got to the Statehouse he discovered that things were less black-and-white than he had thought, Scott said. He was taken under the wing of “a lot of good people” in the Legislature – including that of Sen. Dick Mazza, one of the most powerful members of the Senate – and a Democrat. Scott serves as vice chairman of the Transportation Committee run by Mazza, while Mazza (who held a fundraiser for Scott) is vice chairman on Scott’s Institutions Committee.
Working with the Democrats and being one of two Republicans asked to be a chairman of a committee in the overwhelming Democratic Senate, is one of the reasons he would do well in the state’s second-highest office, elected separately from the governor in one the quirks of Vermont’s political structure.
“We need to forge relationships,” Scott said. “I think I can be extremely effective in a leadership position in the Legislature.”
Scott can sound like a classic example of the Yankee Republican from, as he puts it, a blue-collar background – he bought DuBois from an uncle by making weekly payments for two decades. Scott believes in less government, in lower taxes and, as he puts it, in learning “how to take care of ourselves again.”
But it is hard to categorize Scott, as his colleagues in the Legislature and voters have learned. A stock car driver, he logged 4,000 miles last summer on his bicycle. Scott argues for less government assistance for Vermonters, but also started the Wheels for Warmth program to get heating assistance to those who need it and organizes efforts to shovel off barns when deep snow threatened.
And although elected during a year when Republicans gained in the Legislature after the state’s civil unions law was passed, Scott voted for this year’s same-sex marriage bill.
His strongest feeling about that vote was that the Legislature should not have been working on the issue when other matters, including the economy, were pressing, Scott said.
“I could not get passionate about the issue one way or the other,” he said. Ultimately the support of the measure in Washington County – for instance in the annual poll by one of his Senate colleagues Sen. Bill Doyle, R-Washington, won out, Scott said.
“I let that be my guide,” Scott said.
On other issues Scott was more firmly with the Republicans, including on the future of the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant. Scott voted to return the bill which would have allowed the Public Service Board to rule on the case to a legislative committee rather than vote it down as ultimately occurred.
There were – and remain – studies and reports yet to be completed and other information about the plant to be gathered before he felt ready to take a vote, Scott said. And, he added, a vote in support of the plant would have been only the first step in the process of the nuclear plant’s operation beyond 2012.
“If it is unsafe we should shut it down,” Scott said.
He added he was advocating for lawmakers to learn more before making that decision.
“I didn’t feel we had the expertise to make that decision,” he said.
Rep. Linda Myers of Essex Endorses Phil Scott
28 Jul 2010
Montpelier, VT – State Senator Phil Scott, candidate for Lieutenant Governor, today received another key legislative endorsement, as Representative Linda Myers of Essex signed on as a supporter of the Scott campaign.
“It gives me great pleasure to endorse Senator Phil Scott for the position of Vermont’s Lieutenant Governor,” Myers said. “I have known Phil for the past nine years, and for the past six years I have worked closely with him in crafting the state’s Capital Construction bills. Phil has been an experienced, knowledgeable legislator, and he will bring those years of experience to the job of Lieutenant Governor.”
“Phil is a person whose word you can trust, one who carefully thinks through the issues, and one who makes decisions based on what is best for the State of Vermont,” Myers continued. “He is able to work comfortably with members of all parties and has earned the respect of his fellow legislators. I urge all Vermonters to cast their ballot for Phil Scott.”
“It means a lot to have the support of those I’ve worked with in the Legislature over the past 10 years,” said Phil Scott. “I thank Linda for her endorsement, and I look forward to continuing to work with her and her House colleagues as Vermont’s next Lieutenant Governor.”
Phil Scott, a 5-term state Senator representing Washington County, is a Republican candidate for Lieutenant Governor. Scott owns Dubois Construction in Middlesex, and is one of the founders of the Wheels for Warmth program, which accepts donations of used winter tires for resale to low-income Vermonters, with proceeds benefiting heating fuel assistance efforts. Scott is also a well-known racecar driver on the American-Canadian Tour, and a 3-time track champion at Barre’s Thunder Road.
House & Senate Minority Leaders Endorse Phil Scott for Lt. Governor
26 Jul 2010
Montpelier, VT – State Senator Phil Scott, candidate for Lieutenant Governor, today received key legislative endorsements from House Minority Leader Patti Komline of Dorset and Senate Minority Leader Bill Doyle of Montpelier.
“In my six years serving in the Legislature, I have seen Phil Scott at work on many different issues,” said Komline, a 3-term Representative. “He has an incredible work ethic, integrity and the respect of all those who serve with him. He isn’t a politician, but a true statesman, and that’s why he needs to be elected as our next Lt. Governor.”
Doyle, a 21-term State Senator from Washington County, added: “I am supporting Phil Scott for Lieutenant Governor because of his outstanding legislative service and his demonstrated ability to bring people together on important issues.”
Phil Scott thanked his Legislative colleagues for their support. “It means a lot to have the support of those I’ve worked with in the Legislature, particularly folks in the Republican leadership,” said Scott. “I thank Patti and Bill for their endorsements, and I look forward to continuing to work with them and with their House and Senate colleagues as Vermont’s next Lieutenant Governor.”
Phil Scott, a 5-term state Senator representing Washington County, is a Republican candidate for Lieutenant Governor. Scott owns Dubois Construction in Middlesex, and is one of the founders of the Wheels for Warmth program, which accepts donations of used winter tires for resale to low-income Vermonters, with proceeds benefiting heating fuel assistance efforts. Scott is also a well-known racecar driver on the American-Canadian Tour, and a 3-time track champion at Barre’s Thunder Road.
"Race to Victory" Tour visits 18 towns in first week
23 Jul 2010
Montpelier, Vt. – It’s been only one week since Phil Scott kicked off his “Race to Victory” Tour at the State House in Montpelier on Thursday, July 15th, and the Tour has already surpassed expectations. The statewide voter registration and meet-the-candidate effort has traveled to 18 towns – from St. Johnsbury to Rutland, Bethel to Burlington – visiting numerous companies and attending events.
At each stop along the way, Scott has spent considerable time talking to Vermonters, registering new voters, and hearing firsthand the issues concerning workers, business owners, families and individuals from all walks of life.
“I’m very proud to say that I’ve been called a ‘common man who achieves uncommon results,’” Scott said. “I am no stranger to working hard, rolling up my sleeves and getting my hands dirty, which is why I believe Vermonters can relate to me and why they can share my vision for a more prosperous Vermont.”
The Tour’s stops have included Foster Motors in Middlebury, H.A. Manosh Corp. in Morrisville, Swenson Granite in Barre, and the Connecticut Valley Fair. Conversations have ranged from revitalizing our rural economy to creating good paying jobs, developing more affordable housing, and finding solutions to the affordability challenges that so many Vermonters are facing.
“One of the most rewarding experiences has been talking to young people about getting involved in the process and the importance of voting in the August 24th primary and the November general election,” said Scott. He has registered dozens of new voters in the past week, starting with Sam Kessler, 18, of Montpelier.
This coming weekend, the Tour travels to the Barre Heritage Festival, the Lamoille County Field Days, the White River Lions Car Show and the St. Albans Firefighters Banquet and Parade, with many more stops planned for the following week.
Phil Scott Launches Race To Victory Tour
15 Jul 2010
Montpelier, Vt. – Lieutenant Governor candidate and Senator Phil Scott today launched his “Race to Victory” tour, a statewide tour to meet with Vermonters, visit Vermont businesses and register new voters.
“I’ve been honored to meet with and have the support of so many individuals from across Vermont. I’ve worn many hats in my life – successful business owner, legislator, outdoorsman, race car driver, father, to name a few – and I know Vermonters from all walks of life can relate to me and share my vision for the future of our state,” said Scott.
“But I’ve also met a lot of Vermonters who feel their voices haven’t been heard in Montpelier and many who’ve become disengaged from the political process. On this “Race to Victory” tour, I’ll be working hard to restore individuals’ faith in politics and government, and energize and engage new voters who will help propel Republicans to victory in the fall.”
Scott will be touring the state in a “Race to Victory” Mobile Voter Registration truck, registering new voters and meeting with Vermonters to share with them his vision for a more prosperous Vermont. He’ll be visiting job sites, downtowns, farms, factory floors and small businesses.
“It’s important that Vermonters are made aware of the primary being early this year, and that they have the opportunity to participate in the process,” Scott said, noting that the August 24th primary is a full two weeks earlier than in years past. “I want to make sure that everyone has a chance to vote – that everyone has their say in choosing the people who will help take Vermont forward.”
VADA Endorses Phil Scott for Lieutenant Governor
07 Jul 2010
The Vermont Vehicle and Automotive Distributors Association announced today that they have endorsed State Senator Phil Scott for Lieutenant Governor.
“As an association, we appreciate Phil Scott’s common sense approach on complicated and sometimes contentious issues before the Transportation Committee,” said Mitchell Jay, VADA President. “He knows how to run a business, manage a budget, and literally how to change the tires if the wheels come off the car. Like the auto industry, Vermont’s economy is facing a rough road ahead over the next few years, and we think Phil would be an exceptional co-pilot for Vermont’s next Governor.”
The Vermont Vehicle and Automotive Distributors Association, formerly the VT Automobile Dealers Association, represents the interests of 130 new and used auto dealers throughout Vermont.
“I truly appreciate their support,” said Phil Scott. “As vice chair of the Transportation Committee, I’ve worked closely with the auto dealers over my 10 years in the Senate. I appreciate their recognition of the work I’ve done to make it easier for Vermont automotive dealers to do business here.”
During the 2009-2010 legislative session, Senator Scott was a lead sponsor of the Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, Distributors, and Dealers Franchising Practices Act, which protects dealers against unfair termination of their franchises and ensures that dealers are fairly compensated by manufacturers for warranty work. The bill became law on June 1.
Pat McDonald Joins Phil Scott for Lieutenant Governor as Campaign Manager
29 Jun 2010
State Senator Phil Scott announced today that Pat McDonald has joined the Scott for Lieutenant Governor team as campaign manager.
McDonald served two terms as state representative from Washington 3-3 (Berlin and Barre City). She has over 15 years of experience in Vermont state government, having served as Secretary of Transportation, Commissioner of Labor, Commissioner of Personnel, Deputy Commissioner of Education, and Commissioner of Motor Vehicles.
“I’m very pleased that Pat has agreed to serve as my campaign manager,” said Phil Scott. “Pat is a recognized leader throughout the state, and possesses a wealth of knowledge about state and local government, as well as the private and non-profit sectors. Pat has also been an active volunteer in a variety of community and statewide initiatives, and understands firsthand the needs of Vermonters and the Vermont economy. With her strong management and organizational skills, she’ll make a great crew chief for my campaign.”
McDonald said she was honored to have been tapped for the position. “I’ve worked with Phil for many years,” McDonald said, “and I have always admired his incredible ability to bring people together from very different points of view to find the right solution. That ability is a huge part of being a successful lieutenant governor, and I think Phil is just the man for the job. I’m thrilled to be part of his team.”
Scott Hopes to Speed Toward Lt. Governor Position
02 Jun 2010
“We rely so heavily on others to feed us, on others to energize us, others to manufacture for us. I think we need to learn how to take care of ourselves again. I may not be able to do everything proficiently, but I can take care of myself in every sense of the word. I think that’s what we (Vermonters) need.”
- Senator Phil Scott
Click here to read full article in Bennington Banner
Campaign News
27 May 2010
In light of recent attacks on me in the press of illegal campaign activity, I encourage you to read Terri Hallenbeck’s Burlington Free Press blog entry from May 26th. Friends of my campaign hosted a fundraiser this week, which sparked accusations of illegal fundraising by the Vermont Democratic Party. Those accusations were wrong, period. I am well aware of our laws regarding campaign fundraising; I will and have followed those laws to the letter. Terri’s entry sets the record straight.
Vermont Democratic Party loose with facts
11:42 AM Wed., May 26, 2010 |
By Terri Hallenbeck
The Vermont Democratic Party has taken to winging it, flinging ill-conceived accusations about opponents without regard to facts.
In a news release issued Friday and again in an Associated Press article Tuesday, the party accused Republican lieutenant governor candidate Phil Scott of illegal activity that hasn’t happened.
Last week, the party sent out a release titled: “Statement from VDP Chair Judy Bevans on Senator Phil Scott’s Illegal Acceptance of Campaign Contributions.”
When AP reporter Dave Gram delved into the story Tuesday, he quoted party spokesman Casey Haggas as saying of Scott, “We know for a fact that if he goes ahead with the event the event itself will be illegal,” Haggas said.
It’s not true.
In a phone call this morning, Haggas conceded as much.
“I misspoke in saying the event itself is illegal,” Haggas said.
Here’s the baseline issue: Wayne Lamberton, owner of Lamberton Electric in Montpelier, sent out invitations to an event for tonight in support of Scott’s campaign at the Elks Club in Montpelier. He urged attendees to contribute to Scott’s campaign. Among the inivitees were registered Vermont lobbyists.
As a sitting senator, Scott is not allowed to solicit or accept contributions from lobbyists or lobbyists’ employers while the Legislature is in session. Yes, legislators adjourned May 12, but they set a June 9 return date in case the governor vetoes anything, so they didn’t really adjourn.
The Vermont Democratic Party, having read about the Lamberton event on vt.digger.org, jumped all over it. Haggas said the party was “under the impression” that Lamberton employed a lobbyist, making the in-kind contribution of sending out invitations and renting the hall an illegal contribution.
No one at the party apparently dialed the phone number of the Secretary of State’s Office to ask, however. If they had, they would have been told that, no, Lamberton is not a lobbyist or lobbyist employer. Lamberton Electric is a member of Associated General Contractors, which employs a lobbyist, but that does not qualify him as a lobbyist employer, said Elections Director Kathy DeWolfe.
Yes, it’s a fine line. Yes, it’s confusing, but there it is.
“Maybe we were wrong,” Haggas said today, though she didn’t indicate any plans to check for herself.
Scott said he sought clarification from the Secretary of State’s Office about campaign contributions weeks ago and would refuse contributions from lobbyists until adjournment is final.
If he did accept any money from lobbyists at tonight’s event, Haggas emphasized, it would be illegal.
That’s true. But it hasn’t happened yet, contrary to what the Vermont Democratic Party would have you believe.
Senator Phil Scott Takes Race to Rutland County
20 May 2010
Senator Phil Scott from Middlesex is a three-time Thunder Road Champion. Scott is running for the Vermont Lt. Governor’s office in the coming election, his first state-wide political effort. When the American Canadian Tour (ACT) announced that the Late Model division from Thunder Road would be opening the new Devil’s Bowl Speedway in West Haven, VT, Scott was the first to applaud the decision.
Click here to read full article
Senator Phil Scott's Leadership Improves Safety on the Roads
06 May 2010
Lawmakers struck an unofficial deal yesterday to ban texting while driving for all Vermonters. The bill is expected to be signed into law by Gov. Jim Douglas this week, with the ban taking effect sometime this summer.
“I think it’s a good measure we can be proud of that could save lives almost immediately. It’s effective upon passage,” said Sen. Phil Scott, R-Washington County.
Click here to watch the video on WCAX
In a bi-partisan effort, the bill also bans cell phone and electronic device usage for junior operators, drivers aged 16 and 17.
“Taking all those distractions away from them would be good for everyone,” said Sen. Phil Scott.
Click here to watch the video on FOX 44
VT Lawmakers Show Leadership on Vermont Yankee
08 Apr 2010
Four Vermont senators say their colleagues in Montpelier should take into consideration a report that says relicensing Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant is the smartest course for the state, from an economic standpoint.
Endorsing it were Republican state Sens. Phil Scott and Peg Flory and Democratic Sens. Richard Mazza and Robert Starr.
Click here to read the article
(BusinessWeek)
This new report proves that keeping the plant open is critical, while building more green energy at the same time.
“It’s time to take all the information in and make some logical decisions based on the information we received,” said Sen. Phil Scott, R-Washington County.
Click here to read the article
(WCAX)
[The] report released earlier this month showed the state losing about 1,100 jobs if Vermont Yankee closed in 2012.
“This is important information that we need to decide if the state should move forward with Vermont Yankee or not,” said Sen. Phil Scott. “We need to have all the information before us.”
Click here to read the article
(Rutland Herald)
“This was supposed to be the session of jobs. This wasn’t supposed to be the session of discontinuing jobs.” – Sen. Phil Scott
“I think it’s devastating and I think there’s a ripple effect.” – Sen. Phil Scott
“We need to make a logical choice, it doesn’t have to be based on politics.” – Sen. Phil Scott
Click here to watch the video
(FOX 44)
House passes 'Big Bill'
27 Mar 2010
Sen. Phil Scott, R-Washington, said the bill raises taxes on Vermont businesses at a time when they are struggling.
“As Vermont manufacturers and contractors cling to stay afloat in this recession, the House is sending a strong anti-business message,” said Scott, a GOP candidate for lieutenant governor. “I can assure you I will be working with others in the Senate to remove this provision.”
Click here to read the article
(Reformer)
Most Likely to Reach Across the Aisle
17 Mar 2010
When he’s not zooming around Thunder Road Speedbowl at 80 mph, local stock-car driver Sen. Phil Scott is steering legislation to a bipartisan photo finish. Or so say the handful of people who voted him “Most Likely to Reach Across the Aisle.” One legislator wrote of Scott in the survey, “Always, eye on the goal and the best way to get there.”
Click here to read the article
(Seven Days)
A fan of Sen. Phil Scott
08 Mar 2010
Kudos to Sen. Phil Scott. The Vermont senate voted 26 to 4 not to allow Vermont Yankee to be re-licensed in 2012 for 20 years. I personally haven’t made a decision either way as I don’t know nearly enough about nuclear energy, the environment or the economic impact to our state.
Click here to read the article
(Times Argus)
My Turn: Cheers to Sen. Scott for measured approach to Vt. Yankee
07 Mar 2010
I want to congratulate Sen. Phil Scott for separating his campaign for Vermont’s lieutenant governor from the issues at hand. If any of you heard Sen. Scott’s floor speech, he hit the nail right on the head. His idea of postponing the vote regarding Vermont Yankee until all 30 senators had full knowledge of the facts about the issue at hand before voting is correct.
Click here to read the article
(Burlington Free Press)
Momentum Builds for Texting Ban
01 Mar 2010
MONTPELIER – Senate lawmakers will fast-track a bill that would ban texting while driving, but legislators are still debating whether the new law should apply to all motorists or only younger drivers.
Click here to read the article.
(Times Argus)
Bill to study the economic ramifications of closing Vermont Yankee
02 Feb 2010
Sen. Phil Scott, himself a candidate for lieutenant governor, said Monday he will introduce an amendment to send the bill to the Appropriations or Economic Development committee to study the economic ramifications of closing Vermont Yankee.
Click here to read the article
(vt.Buzz ~ a political blog)
