Vermont will choose a lieutenant governor in November. It’s shaping up to be the race to watch this fall.
Saturday at the statehouse, Progressive candidate Dean Corren officially kicked off his campaign for the office. There, Corren emphasized his Democratic Primary write-in campaign.
The kickoff was hosted by Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield. Yes, that Ben and Jerry.
“Some say the incumbent has the advantage,” Cohen said, introducing the event. “That's what they said about Häagen Dazs.”
Speakers included labor leaders, environmentalists, single payer health care supporters and fellow politicians.
Corren largely focused on two issues in his speech: single payer and climate change.
But he also emphasized his write-in campaign.
The candidate’s name will appear on the Progressive Party ballot, but he’s also seeking the Democratic nomination.
Corren says he views it as an opportunity for the two parties to work together.
“Our two distinct and separate parties can work together in this race on these issues and get this done,” said Corren. “Far more important than some of the things we fight about here in this building.”
He’ll face Republican incumbent Phil Scott.
Corren has been able to win some major political endorsements including that of Gov. Peter Shumlin and the Vermont National Education Association, the state’s largest union.
But there are some Democratic leaders who have pledged their support for Scott.
"This is an off year. There are going to be a lot of people who don't vote. Young people, lower income people. The people who support us may not come out and vote unless we make it happen." - Dean Corren, candidate for lieutenant governor
Corren also encouraged supporters to spread the word about the campaign. He says the lack of hotly contested races in this year’s election could result in low turnout.
“This is an off year” said Corren. “There are going to be a lot of people who don’t vote. Young people, lower income people. The people who support us may not come out and vote unless we make it happen.”
Washington county senator Anthony Pollina spoke in support of Corren.
Pollina says that many people think the office of lieutenant governor is symbolic, but he stresses it’s an important role:
“It is important who is elected lieutenant governor,” said Pollina. “And it’s important that the lieutenant governor be someone who is progressive-minded and forward thinking, because that’s where the majority of Vermonters are.”
While the Democratic Party has stopped short of endorsing Corren, he could qualify as the Democratic candidate if he receives at least 250 write in votes in the August 26 primary.
