As we look toward the 2025-2026 biennium, an important conversation is unfolding in Vermont about the future of our state's leadership in the House of Representatives. The role of Speaker of the House holds great influence in shaping the direction of our state's legislative agenda, and with the upcoming term on the horizon, we have an exciting opportunity to hear from candidates vying for this critical position.
Historically, the position has been selected internally and not involved Vermont's voters directly, however this year the White River Valley Chamber - in conjunction with the Chandler Center and Representative Jay Hooper - are planning to host a public debate where prospective Speakers will discuss their visions for the future of Vermont and how they plan to lead our legislature in the next biennium. This debate will allow voters to hear directly from those who seek to represent their interests in the House and make informed decisions about who will best serve our communities.
As it now stands, the debate between existing Speaker Jill Krowinski and (D) and Representative Laura Sibilia (and potentially others) would be set up on December 14th at the Chandler, but neither have as yet committed, so this is a letter to encourage them to say 'Yes!'. As a native Vermonter deeply concerned about recent legislative priorities, I'm encouraged by the possibility of this debate in order to learn more about the candidates, and to get more of our citizens involved in the legislative process.
Please support this initiative for a future where we ALL work together to ensure that our state's leadership reflects the interests and needs of all Vermonters. Thank you.
-Jamie Gage, Music Mountain Road
Dec 26, 2024, 4 to 5 PM
Community Read-Aloud at Royalton LibraryDec 29, 2024, 4 to 5 PM
"Messiah" Singalong in RandolphJan 1, 2025, 2 to 4 PM