Vermont Business Magazine The Vermont House Democratic Caucus met on Saturday to elect its leadership team for the upcoming legislative biennium and reaffirmed their commitment to addressing the critical issues facing Vermonters across the state.
The caucus nominated Representative Jill Krowinski, the incumbent Speaker of the House, to continue her role. The final vote for the position will be held the first day of the legislative session by the Secretary of State. Speaker Krowinski, who has served as Speaker for four years, expressed her gratitude and commitment to leading the House through the challenges ahead.
Rep. Laura Sibilia (I-Dover) is the only other person known to seek the position of Speaker.
“We are at a critical juncture in our state's history,” said Speaker Jill Krowinski. “This legislative session will define the future of our communities and our state. Let’s be honest, this work will not be easy. But I know we will all rise to the occasion. I know there’s a shared desire among us to improve and adapt, and I’m taking in all of our conversations to inform my leadership approach this session.”
In addition to the Speaker nominee, Representative Lori Houghton was elected as the Majority Leader. Rep. Houghton previously served as the Chair of the House Committee on Health Care.
“Today, for some we continue, for others we are just starting, the hard and important work of tackling the priorities Vermonters told us are important – the issues we heard about at doors this election, at the grocery store, at community conversations, in our emails – quality public education and property taxes, housing and health care,” said Majority Leader Lori Houghton. “We need to focus on the priorities that will make Vermont more affordable.”
Representative Karen Dolan was nominated and elected as the Assistant Majority Leader.
“We know the destinations that we want to arrive at by the end of the biennium, but it’s a matter of how we are going to get there,” said Assistant Majority Leader Karen Dolan. “Our route will be determined by listening, staying curious, transparent communication and establishing space for meaningful discussion. These are the commitments I am ready to uphold as our caucus heads into the next biennium.”
The caucus also nominated and elected Representative Mary-Katherine Stone and Representative Heather Surprenant to lead House communications, Representative Leslie Goldman to serve as the Leadership Development Assistant, and Representative John Bartholomew to represent the House Democrats on the Rules Committee.
The Democratic Caucus enters the new biennium as the majority caucus in the Vermont House, with a strong mandate from Speaker Krowinski to deliver on the issues that matter most to Vermonters. The leadership team will work collaboratively with all members, the Governor’s office, and stakeholders across the state to advance solutions that build a stronger, more resilient Vermont.
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