MARLBORO — We are writing in support of Becca Balint for state senator from Windham County.
We have known Becca for almost 20 years, throughout her tenure as co-director of Saltash Mountain Camp at Farm and Wilderness Camps, as a junior-high teacher at various schools in Windham County, and as a wife, a mother, a community member, a Brattleboro Town Meeting representative, a member of SeVEDS (Southeast Vermont Economic Development Strategies), and now as a candidate for public office.
Becca is one of the smartest people we have ever known. Many of you have become regular readers of her insightful column in the Reformer. Her insatiable curiosity, voluminous reading, and joy of vigorous conversation will serve us well in the Vermont Senate.
She is absolutely committed to doing her part to make Windham County's workforce second to none in the state. She will be a passionate advocate for fair taxation, single-payer health care, sustainable energy, and excellent public schools. She is one of the first graduates from the Emerge Program, initiated by former Governor Madeline Kunin to encourage women to become more involved in politics.
Some have suggested that Becca should be discounted because she is a political newcomer. We say it's time for a new generation of political leaders who are keen to bring new energy to statewide politics.
Becca might be new to the political scene, but she is no newcomer to vigorous debate, personal connection, and genuine concern for the working people of Windham County.
Remember: the primary date is Tuesday, Aug. 26. You may vote early.