by Mike Smith Something is brewing in Vermont. Whether it truly signifies a change or a shift in our politics and how we approach public policy remains to be seen, but there is certainly mounting evidence that something is afoot in this state.In the last election, a once-popular incumbent Democrat governor was nearly defeated by a political novice and underfunded Republican opponent in deep blue Vermont. The Vermont Republican Party gained seats in the State House for the first time in nearly two decades. And now Donald Trump arrives in the state — home of Sen. Bernie Sanders — and attracts a massive, enthusiastic audience.
Certainly, Vermonters are nervous and concerned over the lack of economic progress — a nervousness that accounts for some of Senator Sanders’ support beyond his traditional liberal base — and they are growing impatient. They remain very worried about economic issues, including the cost of living in the state and the availability of good jobs that pay a steadily rising wage. They also seem impatient with our current fiscal policies.
There may be an interesting dynamic at play. Vermonters may be willing to support substantial public policy changes by embracing different thinking about how to achieve economic progress and security. Ironically, such a change might bring about a period of discomfort, perhaps even a period of further insecurity — particular if state government is substantially modernized in the process, but Vermonters seem to be saying it can’t be business as usual.
The Great Recession of 2008 and 2009 traumatized many Vermonters and they — and by some measures portions of the state’s economy — still haven’t recovered from the impacts of that economic event. Although economists will tell us that the recession has long passed — and they have charts and slides and graphs to prove it — the fact is the side effects of that recession still linger. Lagging state revenues, continued budget shortfalls and talk of the potential for future economic turmoil only add to the economic concerns of Vermonters.
With jitters about the economy widespread, and the rising cost of living and the challenging job market at the forefront of many minds, politicians may tout improved economic statistics, but many Vermonters aren’t feeling better about their economic circumstances. So when policymakers increase spending on programs or when they propose to create new programs or taxes, it should come as no surprise that Vermonters’ concerns are heightened and those feelings turn to resistance and anger.
There is a sense among some Vermonters that no one is listening, that elected officials don’t understand their challenges, and that no one is offering measurable solutions to address their growing economic concerns. This appears to be contributing to an increasing number of Vermonters feeling disconnected from thepolitical and public policy process. Until someone addresses their concerns it is likely that this group will grow, along with their anger and frustration.
Change can’t be achieved by pitting one group against another. True change is achieved through inclusiveness and collaboration. In fact, trying to pit groups against each other sends a clear signal that it’s politics as usual. Vermonters will reject that strategy, and their frustration will continue to grow. It may be politically expedient to use this tactic, but in the end it will only exacerbate the problem.
It’s clear there’s something going on in Vermont. So far it is a phenomenon that no one seems to fully understand.
Mike Smith was the secretary of administration and secretary of human services under former GovernorJim Douglas. He is the host of the radio program, “Open Mike with Mike Smith,” on WDEV 550 AM and 96.1, 96.5 and 101.9 FM. He is also a political analyst for WCAX-TV and WVMT radio and is a regular contributor to the Times Argus, Rutland Herald and Vermont Business Magazine.