In a year of many worries about what the future holds, we are fortunate to have a RAD-endorsed progressive candidate for governor who has committed to helping build a Vermont that prioritizes workers’ rights, racial justice, public services, and a climate-secure future. His name? David Zuckerman.
With less than four weeks to the election, we hope this side-by-side comparison of where Zuckerman and our current Governor Phil Scott stand on key issues will not only convince you (if you need any convincing), but also help you persuade your friends and family to get out the vote for Zuckerman.
We extend our gratitude to RAD member Lesley Jacobson for compiling much of the information for this post.
CLIMATE CHANGE
ZUCKERMAN
- Supported the Global Warming Solutions Act that the Vermont Legislature recently passed on a veto override.
- Supports green jobs with dignified wages and weatherization of buildings.
- Commits to prioritizing people over corporations and holding corporate polluters accountable.
SCOTT
- Vetoed the Global Warming Solutions Act that the Vermont Legislature passed.
- Under Scott’s administration, Vermont lost more than 400 solar jobs prior to COVID-19.
- Vetoed legislation that would have protected Vermont residents from corporate polluters.
JOBS & ECONOMY
ZUCKERMAN
- Plans to invest in climate jobs and the green economy.
- Supports raising the minimum wage to $15/hour and implementing Paid Family Leave.
- Supports expanding affordable housing and improving energy efficiency.
SCOTT
- Vetoed raising the minimum wage TWICE, in 2018 and 2020
- Vetoed Paid Family Leave TWICE, in 2018 and 2020
COVID-19
ZUCKERMAN
- Wants to address gaps and needs that COVID-19 has highlighted, including fair wages, Paid Family Leave, broadband access and racial equity.
- Supported mask-wearing once it was backed by science.
- Proposed supplemental support for the Department of Labor to address high claim volume during shut down.
SCOTT
- Waited to implement a mask mandate until months after CDC recommendations.
- No plan to address high volume of unemployment claims during shut down, which resulted in major delays in processing.
- Took no leadership in the safe reopening of schools, leaving all the work to the local school districts.
RACIAL JUSTICE & EQUITY
ZUCKERMAN
- Committed to addressing systemic racism and working closely with those most impacted.
- Proposes adequate staffing for the office of Vermont’s Director of Racial Equity.
- Supports reallocating some law enforcement funding to better meet community safety goals.
SCOTT
- Appointed Director of Racial Equity and established Racial Equity Task Force, but has not funded additional positions to support this work.
EDUCATION & STATE COLLEGES
ZUCKERMAN
- Wants to address inequities by increasing broadband access for all.
- Supports expanding early childhood services.
- Has pledged to support State Colleges and invest in education and training opportunities for young Vermonters.
SCOTT
- Proposed cuts to educators in 2018
- Proposed revote on school district budgets during COVID-19.
- FY 2021 proposed budget lacked adequate funding for struggling State Colleges.
HEALTHCARE
ZUCKERMAN
- Supports universal health care.
SCOTT
- Opposes Medicaid expansion.