Vermont Business Magazine Hartland Democrat Matt Dunne is not declaringhe's running for Vermont governor, but he's done everything short of saying so. This morning he sent out a detailed letter to potential supporters asking them for their feedback as he continues the process toward making a decision.As of the July 15, 2015, election reporting cycle, he filed a contribution report with the Vermont Secretary of State that lists $115,000 in donations and only $1,600 in expenditures. With Governor Shumlin already announcing he is not seeking re-election, the field is relatively wide open without a clear favorite, now that Congressman Peter Welch has decidedto stay put in Washington.
Addison County Field Days Democratic primary debate, August 2010, from left, Peter Shumlin, Matt Dunne, Doug Racine, Susan Bartlett and Deb Markowitz. VBM file photo.
Dunne, by far the most vigorous potential candidate for governor (SEE CAMPAIGN DISCLOSURE BELOW), at least as far as organization is concerned, sent an email letter to potential supporters Wednesday morning asking to hear from them directly or at upcoming meetingsas he decides whether to try again for the state's highest office, while emphasizing, "To be clear, this email is not an announcement."
Dunne, a Google executive and former state senator,was among a crowded and credible field of Democrats in 2010 when Peter Shumlin managed to barely win the nomination before barely winning the governorship over Brian Dubie. While noone has declared they will be a candidate, other high profile politicianswho are considering or who could be potential candidates include Republican Lieutenant Governor Phil Scott and Democratic Speaker of the House Shap Smith. Still others who have been mentioned as possible candidatesinclude businessman Bruce Lisman (who has not declared a party affiliation), Transportation Secretary Sue Minter (Democrat), and former State Auditor Randy Brock (Republican).
At this time, the two other Democrats in that heated primary in 2010 appear that they will not be candidates, ANR Secretary Deb Markowitz and former Lieutenant Governor Doug Racine.
DUNNE EMAIL LETTER July 22, 2015
Greetings!
As you know, change is coming to Vermont.
Governor Shumlin announced a month ago that he would not seek another term. At this significant moment of transition, we have the opportunity to think about where we are as a state and where we need and want to go.
Many of you have encouraged me to run for governor next year. I am honored to have your support.
To be clear, this email is not an announcement. I am taking this decision very seriously and I know that I do not want to make it alone. I have managed organizations large and small through times of change, and I know that to bring about meaningful change you need the right people to work with you to make it a reality.
I want to hear from you.
Over the last few weeks, I have started reaching out to Vermonters across the state: friends I grew up with in Hartland, colleagues from my time in the legislature, people I worked with to grow a business in Vermont, neighbors who drive snowplows on our state highways, social entrepreneurs in our state who worked with me at AmeriCorps*VISTA. I also heard from many Vermonters who no longer live in Vermont, people who grew up here and want to come home.
I have already heard that our economy is stalled. Hardworking middle class families who want to leave their children and our state in a better place are struggling to keep pace. Our schools are losing children, health care costs are rising, farmers are struggling to keep their barns standing, and young people are facing debilitating college debt. Hard working people in all parts of state government are frustrated. Too many Vermonters remain caught in the cycle of poverty.
For all their concerns, the people I have talked with are also optimistic that we can make progress on the key problems facing our state. Time and again, I have heard that Vermonters are ready for a fresh start.
These conversations have only just begun. Over the next few months, I will be working with a dedicated group of volunteers to set up meetings with Vermonters in every county of our state. I look forward to listening to your concerns and, more importantly, your solutions.
We'll be in touch with updates soon - but until then please feel free to share your thoughts directly with me at [email protected] You can also sign up to be notified of a community gathering or volunteer to help host one on our sign up page. Finally, feel free to share your thoughts and feedback on our Facebook page.
Thank you for being a part of this important process and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
- Matt
