Vermont Lieutenant Governor Phil Scott is the highest ranking elected Republican in the state. In an email blast Tuesday he officially announced he is running for governor in 2016. The seat is open because incumbent Democrat Peter Shumlin isn’t seeking another term. Scott said he decided to run in order to restore fiscal responsibility and revitalize the fundamentals of the state’s economy. Scott explains to WAMC North Country Bureau Chief Pat Bradley how he plans to accomplish that.
Lieutenant Governor Phil Scott faces retired businessman Bruce Lisman in the Republican primary. Several other Republicans are considering entering the race. Sue Minter resigned Thursday from her position as Vermont Transportation Secretary to enter the Democratic primary. She faces House Speaker Shap Smith and former legislator Matt Dunne.