To the editor:
It has been an honor to have served as the Senator representing the Caledonia District for the past 20 years. As I step down from the Vermont Senate after a fulfilling career, I reflect on the importance of not only having strong, dedicated leadership for our communities, but the importance of having an influential voice for this region in the Senate’s Democratic majority.
I, along with Senators, Starr, Sears, and Mazza have served as the moderate voice in the Democratic caucus. With the loss of four long-serving and moderate Senators, we need to elect a candidate who will provide the strong, thoughtful, and collaborative presence required to shape policies, set priorities, and make decisions within this Democratic majority which is far from the monolith as often presented in the press.
I believe that Amanda Cochrane is a person who can undertake this challenge to help define, not just react to the political agenda as set by others. For these reasons, I encouraged Amanda to run for office and today, I write to ask you to support Amanda Cochrane for the Vermont Senate.
Amanda Cochrane embodies the vision, passion, and tenacity needed to continue our work in Montpelier. Her dedication to community service is unparalleled, and she has consistently shown her commitment to making Vermont a better place for all. Through her various roles, Amanda has secured essential funding, made difficult budget choices, and launched successful initiatives, demonstrating her ability to lead effectively.
Amanda understands the importance of working collaboratively with everyone to achieve common goals. She does not strive for personal gain but works tirelessly for the good of all, particularly those in need. Her leadership style fosters community and inclusivity, ensuring that every voice is heard and respected.
At this critical juncture, there are great challenges ahead. Vermont, like all states, has a critical need for more housing. We have a health care system that requires transformation to achieve fiscal stability and to address the unrelenting and unsustainable insurance premium increases. The large increases in property taxes needed to fund our K-12 educational system must be addressed, and we must invest in mitigation efforts to minimize the impact of climate change that has resulted in severe flooding and property loss. Amanda’s ability to navigate and lead within the majority will ensure that the needs and values of the Northeast Kingdom are prioritized effectively. I urge you to support Amanda Cochrane, a leader poised to utilize her position to effect substantial change for Vermont.
Jane Kitchel
Danville
Jane Kitchel
