Vermont Business Magazine Stewart Ledbetter announced his candidacy today for the Democratic nomination for the Vermont State Senate, representing the Chittenden-Central District.
His decision to run follows a long career in Vermont political journalism spanning six gubernatorial administrations. Ledbetter retired in February as a top-rated anchor at NBC5 in South Burlington and is the former moderator of ‘Vermont This Week’ on Vermont Public (PBS). He was inducted into the Vermont Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2019.
The district comprises most of Burlington, Winooski, Essex Junction and parts of Essex and Colchester. Ledbetter has resided in the district for more than 35 years.
“I’m doing this simply to serve my community,” the first-time candidate said. “I want to help build a better future for every Vermonter.”
Ledbetter said his years covering state government means he’ll offers a pragmatic approach in the next Legislature certain to face a range of difficult issues.
Housing, he said, tops the list.
“We need a lot more housing that working people can afford or we risk losing a generation of young Vermonters now spending almost all of their paychecks on rent,” Ledbetter said. “On top of that, we know much higher property tax rates and health insurance costs are about to hit this year.”
He said education funding reform which may come before the Senate must protect Vermont students, teachers, and staff.
Other priorities include: improving flood resiliency in an age of climate change, expanding weatherization of older homes, and working to restore the sense of vitality and safety in our communities.
Ledbetter’s candidacy won the backing of longtime House Democratic Leader John Patrick Tracy, a 6-term Burlington representative and state director to U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy. Tracy will serve as campaign treasurer.
“With his 25+ years covering every aspect of Vermont, Stewart will bring a thoughtful, respectful and well-informed voice to the Vermont State Senate,” Tracy said.
Former Senate President Pro Tem John Campbell also endorsed Ledbetter ahead of the Aug. 13 Democratic primary.
“The Chittenden Central district sends three senators to Montpelier. Stewart should be one of them,” Campbell said. “He's a trusted individual. I know he’ll serve Vermont well."
Ledbetter said he looks forward to visiting with neighbors as he goes door-to-door this summer. He will attend the Vermont Democratic Party’s annual Curtis-Hoff awards gala Friday evening in Burlington.
Source: 5.17.2024. Winooski, VT — Stewart Ledbetter
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