Election 2026

Richards’ entry is stirring excitement in a Democratic Party that now has two millennial-generation women with deep roots in rural Vermont vying for the chance to challenge 67-year-old Phil Scott, the five-term Republican incumbent who regularly polls as the most popular governor in the country.

Burlington resident Amanda Janoo is taking early aim at Scott’s controversial plan to reform Vermont’s education system and says she'll oppose "forced mergers" and "forced school closures."

Clarkson helped negotiate a major deal last spring to create a new financing program for infrastructure. In retirement, she wants to help reestablish a culinary institute in Vermont.

It is unusual for pro tems who aren’t seeking higher office to announce their retirement mid-session. Senate President Pro Tem Phil Baruth said he wanted to give his colleagues time to choose his replacement.