Bram Kranichfeld to Challenge Current Chittenden County State’s Attorney Sarah George
Vermont Business Magazine Franklin County State's Attorney Bram Kranichfeld today announced his campaign for Chittenden County State’s Attorney, launching a campaign he said is focused on a justice system that is compassionate, accountable, and responsive to the whole community. Current Chittenden SA Sarah George said earlier this month that she is running for re-election. Kranichfeld had already announced he would not seek reelection to the Franklin County post. They both run as Democrats. The primary is August 11.
Kranichfeld, a former Burlington City Councilor, has lived in Chittenden County for 20 years. He said he is running because too many people have lost faith that the current system is working for victims, families, businesses, or the broader public.
“We need a State’s Attorney’s office that works for the whole community,” said Kranichfeld. “That means taking seriously the root causes that lead people into the system, while also making clear that accountability matters. We can care about people and still expect better. In fact, we have to.”
Kranichfeld said restorative justice, diversion, and rehabilitation all have an important role to play, but only if they are backed by meaningful follow-through. He also emphasized that the criminal justice system cannot solve problems like untreated addiction, mental illness, and housing instability on its own.
“There is no contradiction between compassion and accountability,” Kranichfeld said. “We need both.”
State Representative Abbey Duke, who introduced Kranichfeld at his kickoff event, said: “Bram is a dedicated and experienced public servant who understands both the challenges facing Chittenden County and the kind of leadership this moment requires. I’m proud to support his vision for a better future for our community.”
Sarah George, who was first appointed to the post by Governor Phil Scott in 2017, said in a statement today: “I have said since the day I was sworn in: this seat does not belong to me. It belongs to the people of this community — and those same people are fortunate to have a choice. I welcome Mr. Kranichfeld to the race and look forward to a campaign grounded in facts over fear, one that keeps the focus squarely on the issues that matter most to the residents of Chittenden County.”
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