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BRATTLEBORO - There will be a race for state Senate in Windham County.
State records show that three Democrats have filed for the county's two Senate seats, with Brattleboro resident Mary Cain challenging incumbents Peter Galbraith and Jeanette White.
Cain, a justice of the peace, said she wants to bring a new perspective to Montpelier.
"We do have an elitist Senate," she said Friday. "And I think it's time we get back to peoples'-rights issues."
In discussing their candidacies, White and Galbraith referenced their legislative records.
White has the most experience, as the Putney resident is seeking her sixth two-year term in the Senate.
"I do love public policy," she said. "And I love listening. I've been an advocate all my life."
White, who works at Brattleboro Housing Authority, said she has sought to balance the interests of Windham County and the state when making decisions. She cites her recent work as chair of the Senate committee on redistricting, the always-unpopular process of redrawing legislative lines.
"You look at the entire state, and you look at all the options and try to make the best decision," she said.
White also mentioned her work with a state government-accountability committee looking at "better and more-efficient ways of delivering services."
Galbraith, a Townshend resident, is seeking his second Senate term. He is known for his work as a U.S. diplomat, serving as President Bill
He said his priorities have included expanding broadband and cellular service, providing affordable health care and "focusing the state government's attention on the economic challenges we face here in Windham County.
"I am pleased with the progress that we have made in all three areas," Galbraith said in an announcement sent to the Reformer.
"But, there is more work to be done. Next year, we must devise a fair system to finance our single-payer health-care system and I think it critical that we do it in way that captures the largest number of federal dollars," Galbraith said. "And I will continue my efforts to get corporate money out of Vermont political campaigns by enacting the same rules for Vermont candidates that have applied to candidates for federal office since 1907."
Cain asserts that "Vermont is changing, and I don't like many of the changes."
In a written announcement of her candidacy, Cain said she brings a "fresh perspective focusing on growth of jobs, prosperity for all our residents, encouraging safety in the workplace and laws that reflect prioritizing human rights.
"I have a strong agenda to put Vermonters back to work, advocating for expanded health and dental coverage," Cain said.
The state's candidate list is unofficial and could change as officials work to verify election petitions in the coming days.
Mike Faher can be reached at mfaher@reformer.com or 802-254-2311, ext. 275.
