I Support Matt!

It’s a pleasure to be supporting Matt Dunne for Governor as we approach a primary that will really shape Vermont politics for the next generation.

Clearly there are five very talented and interesting people running for the Democratic nomination, and I think any of them would represent a great improvement over the do-very-little Douglas-Dubie legacy. But in a tough moment that will require new thinking, Dunne strikes me as the most interesting of all. His legacy includes stints in Montpelier, but also in Washington (running one of the best government programs, Americorps), and in the private sector (working for probably the most dynamic company at work in America, Google). That’s the kind of experience that should allow outside-the-box thinking in the years ahead.

And that outside-the-box thinking is already evident in the issue positions Dunne has taken. I was most impressed with the agriculture section on his website, which promises that the state will build new slaughterhouses and other processing facilities, protect use value appraisal, and offer help to those farmers who want to transition away from dairy towards something more profitable. These are much better ideas than the policies that have seen most Vermont dairies go out of business. He’s been equally specific about his plans for energy, the other important commodity that we need to rethink and relocalize.

We’re in a big hole; modest changes around the edges won’t get the job done. It’s time for a new generation of leaders, with new energy to bring Vermont forward. It strikes me Matt Dunne is the guy to do it.

- Bill McKibben, Ripton, VT

I believe Matt is the best choice for the next Governor of Vermont. Matt knows that job creation is not just giving Vermonter's taxpayers dollars to a few large corporations but rather to create the basis and infrastructure for every Vermont business to survive and thrive. His recognition that we are all in this together and his adherence to Democratic values of good public education, and good government make him my choice for Governor of Vermont.

-Rep. Dave Sharpe - Bristol

Having worked with Matt Dunne in the Senate, I am confident he is the best candidate to be Governor of Vermont. His innovative, creative, and communicative leadership style makes him uniquely suited to take our state in a fresh direction. Combining diverse experience, a progressive vision for job creation, and a collaborative management approach that listens to and engages citizens and legislators in a transparent way, Matt will bring these crucial qualities to the Governor's office and move Vermont forward into a new era.

- Sen. Harold Giard - Addison County

I stand up for Matt Dunne. I share Matt's vision for Vermont of using innovation and technology to create an educated workforce, a strong local economy, and prosperous sustainable communities supported by good paying jobs.

- Sen. Hinda Miller - Chittenden County

I applaud Matt Dunne's vision and passion for promoting Vermont's economic development opportunities. His fierce intelligence and commitment to service, coupled with his management experience in the public and private sectors make him an outstanding candidate for governor.

- Rep. Alison Clarkson - Woodstock

It was easy for me to endorse Matt Dunne for Governor of Vermont. During the time I worked with Matt in the legislature, he has shown the leadership qualities that Vermont needs in a governor. Matt knows how to get things done and I know from experience that when he says he'll do something, he does it. He cares about the things that are important to Vermonters -- from health care to education to the environment to the business community.

- Rep. Kathy Pellett - Chester

When I was first elected to the legislature, Matt provided me with advice and guidance that were life-changing. He embodies the kind of collaborative, dynamic leadership style that makes public service both noble and relevant. I am proud and excited to support him in his bid for governor.

- Rep. Kesha Ram – Burlington

I'm supporting Matt Dunne because he brings a positive energy and a desire to improve Vermont by accentuating the good things that are happening in this state. Matt has both the legislative and business experience to understand how things get done in both worlds, and he is inspiring many of us by his dedication to community service. His work shows us all that we can provide the solutions to the issues before us, and that it is not government, business or the community alone that can do it, but instead, all of us together.

- Rep. Tom Stevens – Waterbury

Matt Dunne brings a fresh, problem-solving attitude to the table; he is someone that can de-polarize the running of state government. I am confident that Matt can hold that middle ground that can bring more people together in these troubled times.

- Rep. Jeff Young - St. Albans

My name is Nathan Suter, I'm a father of two, an artist, the director of an arts non-profit, and I'm backing Matt Dunne to be our next Governor. Vermont is a great state and a leader in many respects. We need to become a leader in job production, education, and green energy to be viable in the future. We offer critical services to our residents in the state, but we must pay for those services. A strong Vermont economy, a broad range of employment opportunties and a skilled and educated workforce will bring prosperity to the state.

We are fortunate to have a group of great candidates for the Democratic primary. Matt Dunne has the experience (through running AmeriCorps*VISTA, and his work as Head of Community Affairs at Google) and the vision to make Vermont a leader in jobs, education and quality of life while maintaining the unique character of this place.

- Nathan Suter, Burlington, VT

Matt Dunne has a compelling vision for Vermont, and I want to live in the state he envisions!

Vermonters have always been legendary for ingenuity and innovation. The government that Matt envisions will encourage those qualities back to the forefront by making sure we have what ingenuity and innovation need: first-class education for all our children, and broadband (the necessary tool of the modern economy and the electricity of our time) available to the last house on the last mile of the last dirt road. Under Matt's guidance, our state will once again lead the country with alternative forms of energy and improved health care options for all Vermonters -- plus be a model for an open style of leadership that welcomes and encourages ideas and entrepreneurship we haven't even thought of yet.

Matt is a product of Vermont roots, and knows that Vermont community values can bring us together to help government play a positive and fundamental role in our daily lives. He understands how to work together, he listens carefully to the people he meets, and he assimilates and puts to use good ideas and observations wherever he encounters them. With experience in business and teaching as well as in the Legislature, Matt is down-to-earth practical but also visionary. Matt Dunne is what Vermont needs right now!

- Valerie Graham, Charlotte, VT

Matt Dunne has strong and creative plans for the future of Vermont. He has, having served ably in the Legislature as well as directing the national service program AmeriCorps*VISTA in the Clinton administration-and been reappointed by Pres. Bush!), proved his readiness and ability to lead our state. In addition, Matt has experience in the world of business, and understands the need for innovative enterprise for a solid economy.
Best of all, in my mind, he grasps the urgency of developing "green" jobs and environmentally sound policy for Vermont.
With his focus on service, and his understanding of Vermonters' needs added to the picture, I find Matt Dunne to be a truly compelling candidate for Governor.

- Peggy (Margaret) Kannenstine, Woodstock, VT

Matt has a a remarkable combination of proven success in business, government, and politics. These strengths together make him the outstanding choice for Vermont's Governor.

- Heidi Luquer, Hartland, VT
Exec. Comm Sierra Club // Seldon Technologies // Developing Countries Network

I have supported Matt Dunne since he began his political career as a candidate for Representative for West Windsor and Hartland and did such a great job that he was endorsed in his next race by the Republicans and the Democrats of both towns. His actions have always kept up with his words as a Representative and as a Senator. His tenure in the private, public, and volunteer sectors of his career have enhanced his knowledge of the real world. I am delighted to support him for Governor.

- K. Carriere, Brownsville, VT

I've known Matt for over 20 years and can not think of anyone more capable to lead Vermont through the challenges we face. He has the experience and leadership skills to bring people together and come up with new and creative solutions to our problems.

- Josh Manheimer, Norwich, VT
J.C. Manheimer & Company, Ltd.

I am a retired businessman, long time resident of Vermont, and husband of the late chair of the Vermont Democratic Party, Vi Coffin. And I am supporting Matt Dunne for governor.

I feel Matt Dunne is particularly qualified to be governor because of his broad (and successful) experience in business (Logic Associates and now Google), and in both forms of government (four terms in the Vermont legislature, then Director of Ameri/Corp*Vista in Washington).

No other candidate has Matt Dunne’s range of experience in large and small business, in government administration and in politics. All this experience would greatly contribute to the job of making the government of Vermont more responsive to the immediate needs of Vermont businesses and individuals. It could also be of great value in planning for our future needs.

- Edmund (Ned) Coffin, Strafford, VT

Matt Dunne understands the complex web of issues critical to a successful economic development plan: he has the business and political leadership to stimulate high-valued added jobs in Vermont, and that's why I support him.

- Krista Lincoln, Middlebury, VT

When I was in the Vermont House of Representatives and Matt was in the Senate, I always knew two things about him. One, you could just call him "Matt" and you didn't have to call him "Senator". Two, he was always approachable on issues large and small that were important to the the Kingdom and to veterans. For example, we needed vans to get veterans to the VA Hospital -- Matt understood the need, acted on it, got it done, and was a great advocate.

- Winston Dowland, Derby Line, VT

I support Matt Dunne for Governor because his actions have made it clear that he believes in the ability of young people to help shape Vermont for the better. He co-founded the Vermont Legislative Research Shop, a program that allows University of Vermont students like myself to engage in state policy research for our citizen’s legislature. I benefit from the hands-on experience that the program offers, and in return our legislators get thorough policy briefs. I decided to support Matt for Governor after writing my first policy brief; I was impressed with how he wanted to bring together lawmakers and students.

Matt’s plan for affordable higher education is also a big reason for my support. Allowing Vermonters to be reimbursed for a state university education in return for two years of national service would be an enormous step in curbing the sky-rocketing college debts my generation faces. Just as with his Legislative Research Shop, Matt’s promise for affordable college would let young people gain academic experience while at the same time giving back to their state and communities. There ‘s no doubt in my mind that Matt Dunne is the Democratic candidate who not only will do the most for Vermont’s young people, but already has.

- Matt McKeon, Burlington, University of Vermont student

As a recent college graduate, I am returning to Vermont as a volunteer for Matt Dunne's campaign. Matt's record of service is impeccable. He possesses a heartfelt belief in the power and importance of young people in public service, and his support for my generation extends beyond lip service; his record backs it up. With an understanding that the quality of education provided to young Vermonters today will greatly define Vermont's future, he has made educating and creating jobs for the next generation one of his campaign's highest priorities.

Further, Matt understands and embraces Vermont's historic role in our country at large - as a moral compass and leader regarding issues of civil rights and social justice. He is a true progressive, and a truly good person. As a young person looking towards the future I am thrilled to support him.

- Nick Charyk, Age 24, Thetford, VT

Matt's grasp of the economic development/job creation challenges facing Vermont, coming as it does out of his vast experience in the private, public and nonprofit sectors, uniquely positions him to lead Vermont back to prosperity. He has the vision, intelligence, and heart to work with Vermonters as we fashion a dynamic 21st century economy.

- Jill Michaels, Strafford, VT
Economic Development Consultant, Principal
Community Investments

All of the endorsements for Matt on this site point out his notable combination of strengths in the political, educational and business environments. He has proven his knowledge of and responsiveness to the concerns of the people of Vermont. That is his past, and qualifies him extremely well to be a candidate for Governor. But what especially intrigues us, and why we very much hope that his campaign will prove to be victorious, is his vision for the future of our state. He is not willing to put off working towards alternative, greener forms of energy; high speed internet availability for ALL of the state; and creative solutions to insure that the youth of Vermont receives the best education possible — all essential things to ensure that Vermont can move forward and stay competitive with the rest of the nation, and world. All of that coupled with his progressive mind set cause us to believe he is the best man for the job, and we support him wholeheartedly.

- Deborah and John Reese, South Strafford, VT

My name is Brian Locke. I live in Brookfield Vermont and work as a manufacturing engineer. I was a member of the Hartland Volunteer Fire Department for 17 years. During the early 90’s we were trying to get an interstate access installed in North Hartland. This access would greatly decrease our response time to emergency calls on the highway. Without it, we would have to travel an additional 10 miles to arrive. We had submitted the application to the state transportation department, but it was stalled out in the approval process. Matt had just been elected to the state legislature; we gave him a call and explained our situation. Matt was able to move the application through the approval progress, and within a year the access was built and being used to help people.

Without Matt pushing the application, it could have been years (if ever) that we could have had it completed. When Matt says that he is going to do something, he will do his best to follow through. He is a stand-up guy who does what he promises and is one of the people that you can count on to get the job done now.

I am very excited with the positions that Matt is taking with the issues and for the future of Vermont. I endorse Matt for Governor.

- Brian A. Locke, Brookfield, VT

I endorse Matt Dunne for President, cross that out, Governor because he comes to government with a commitment to do the right thing. He backs that commitment with proven dedication and a track record in government, business and the nonprofit sector, and this well rounded experience makes him uniquely qualified to the be the next Governor of our fair State. He has determination and a passion to get beyond the politics and get to the solution, not on a party line, but by reason and thoughtful contemplation.

He is able to be tough and decisive and yet compassionate when needed. He believes in people’s personal rights and also believes that they have personal responsibilities - this mentality in government could foster a more responsible society and one that measures a person’s success not on their holdings, mental acumen or physical strength, but rather by what they do with each of those characteristics and advantages.

Matt is a candidate for those who want a fresh attitude in office and a certain openness to others opinions and positions while examining and even testing his own. He values what makes us different and yet embraces what makes us the same. Matt is my choice for Governor, as I feel he understands the needs of businesses as different as small bed and breakfasts to large multi-national conglomerates, and he understands how to incorporate all of them into our beautiful State while still being conscious of our long standing tradition of environmental responsibility. Through Matt’s experience in the Google world, he understands how technology can play a part in every part of our Vermont lifestyle, from artisans to farmers, distillers to innkeepers, miners to educators, and has a credible plan to implement that every person in Vermont can have access to these technologies if they choose and if they feel it will help them grow their life, business and or career.

Matt has an understanding of how things should work and the importance of entrepreneurial development, intre-preneurial training and positioning Vermont to remain competitive in a global market. His many years of experience in State government have proven his ability to make things happen and his amiable disposition makes people want to help him accomplish his goals. It has made me want to help him and I am a hard sell.

- Robert Lewis Dean II, Windsor, VT
Innkeeper, Juniper Hill Inn
President, Cornish Colony Museum
Board Member, AHEAD

Having successfully run a federal agency with a workforce nearly as big as the State of Vermont's, Matt is especially qualified to serve as the state's chief executive. That, together with his legislative and private sector experience, provide him with a scope of understanding that encompasses a broad range of issues.

Matt brings a thoughtful analysis to every situation. In listening to him speak, you can hear that he believes in solutions, not slogans.

As a teacher and Vermont NEA member, I believe that he has the vision and perseverance to help build a future for the students I serve. I endorse him unreservedly.

- Al Zielenski, Strafford, VT

I'm very thankful Matt Dunne threw his hat into the ring to be Vermont's governor -- he is a voice of reason and fresh air. I was present at the debate in Barre on April 1, and I felt that if the election were held that night, Matt would have been the winner, hands-down.

As a consumer, a taxpayer, a public employee, a former small business owner, a miner, a father, a grandfather, a husband and a VOTER, I am willing to support Matt in any way that I can. As a life-long Vermonter, I know that we can and will work our way out of this mess because that's the way we do it in Vermont.

My feeling is that NOW is the time for the state to INVEST in our infrastructure by using our strength. We have an AAA bond rating, an eager labor force, high unemployment in the Northeast Kingdom and a real chance to put people back to work.

NOW is the time. I propose the state take advantage of the low interest initiatives that exist and stop listening to an administration that says that slashing and destroying our programs, placing more people on social services, and allowing our environment to erode into disrepair is the way to do economic development. Building our communications network and establishing viable alternatives to our energy needs are things that we can and should do.

We need a Governor like Matt Dunne to lead the way.

- Monte Mason, Morrisville, VT

I'm a conservative and always have been a conservative, and always will be. But I'm just like millions of other people in this country -- independent, and I’ll vote for the candidate which I think is going to do the best job.

Matt is the man who is capable of looking at the situation and saying this is what we’ve got to do in order to get the state back on track. And I think Matt would do it on a bipartisan basis.

He can see that growth has to come in a good sense. With his experience of business and what he’s done, I think he sees the fact that we need jobs, good paying jobs. And I’m sure that he could work to get them there.

- Hiram Allen, Barnet, VT
Former Hartland Town Manager
Matt's 1998 Republican Opponent

Hiram Allen’s endorsement video can be found here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YcHsSUb6XYs

As a research scientist, entrepreneur and longtime resident of Vermont, I wholeheartedly endorse Matt Dunne's run for governor and look forward to the positive changes his leadership will bring.

I'm particularly impressed by Matt's well-informed and practical plans to make Vermont a leader in high-tech jobs and innovation for the 21st century. Matt understands that as with the interstate highway system in the 1950s, Vermont's economy moving forward depends on modern infrastructure. Affordable, accessible broadband for every Vermonter is not a luxury, but an absolute necessity; for the first time in more than two decades, with Matt Dunne the state of Vermont will finally
have a chief executive who understands the support technology-based businesses need and can make it happen.

Finally, as a father of two college-age daughters pursuing careers in science, wife Jill and I would love for them to consider Vermont-based careers. I believe that Matt's proposed initiatives for advancing R&D, infrastructure, and health care in Vermont can make this state an exciting place for our daughters and their peers to return to!

- John Erickson, Norwich, Vermont

For some 20 years I stood beside Bernie Sanders, including as his House and Senate Chief of Staff and as his 2006 Campaign Manager. We brought Bernie’s powerful and effective voice to the U.S. Senate, and it has made a huge difference for people in Vermont and across the nation.

Now I'm supporting Matt Dunne's run for Vermont Governor.

Matt Dunne has the energy and ideas to move Vermont into a new era. He’s not afraid to take on those who want government to work for the people at the top instead of working families, family farmers, the small business community, seniors and women. Matt has the executive leadership necessary to take charge on day one to help revitalize Vermont’s economy and bring jobs back to our state.

But being right on the issues, or having the right management style isn't enough. The question is: Who has the real world experience needed to help our state take advantage of the opportunities of the 21st century?

It’s Matt Dunne.

If Bernie Sanders taught me one thing in my 20 years by his side, it’s this: Change will only come when Vermonters standing together elect candidates with vision, candidates committed to the well-being of ordinary Vermonters, candidates who are willing to truly fight on our behalf. I believe Matt Dunne will bring those qualities to Vermont as Governor.

- Jeff Weaver

My name is Francis Janik and I am an independent voter and small business owner who is excited to be able to support Matte Dunne as he runs for governor of Vermont. I believe that Matt stands head and shoulders above from the current group of gubernatorial candidates. When I met Matt for the first time several weeks ago I listened to him speak for 5 hours on a number of issues, He impressed me with his knowledge of the problems that our state faces. I found that his concern for the future of our state is clearly genuine.

Matt has the skill set and experience in both Vermont and Washington D.C. to get Vermont back on it's feet. Matt understands the need for transparency in government and he is determined to create a climate in government that supports the growth of even the smallest business. He is also the only candidate, Republican or Democrat, who is not part of the current administration in Montpelier.
I ask all voters in Vermont to give consideration to electing Matt. I even suggest that we go beyond party affiliation and vote for Matt because he is the best qualified individual to take on the challenges that will be left to the next governor by the current administration. I know from meeting Matt that he will act with integrity and purpose to help this state grow. Please give this dynamic individual your consideration in the upcoming elections.

Sincerely,

- Francis Janik, Jamaica, Vermont

When Matt emailed me last fall that he was "putting on his running shoes", I knew exactly what that meant, and I was happy to once again join his team.
I first met Matt when he was running track at Hanover High School (long distances, I might add!) and I have stayed in touch with him over the years as he has built his impressive resume. I knew his parents and I know they would be very proud of what he's done so far and, even more, what he proposes to do in the future. I cannot think of a brighter, more energetic, more creative, more foward-looking person to be our next Governor, and I'm doing everything I can to make sure that happens. My family has lived in Vermont for the past forty years, and I really believe this is the most important election we've had in all those years. What better time than now to entrust the guidance of the state to someone with the plans Matt has!

- Henry Scheier

As founder and CEO of a Vermont technology company, I am often frustrated with politicians and candidates who disparage the business environment in our state in an attempt to gain cheap political points. Matt Dunne understands that Vermont has the assets to be a leader in creating high tech, high paying jobs across a range of industries. He is also uniquely qualified to understand the motivations and needs of the entrepreneurs who will be critical to Vermont’s future success.

No other candidate shares Matt’s impressive experiences and talents, which make him supremely qualified to lead our state in the 21st century. That is why I am enthusiastically supporting Matt Dunne for Governor of Vermont.

Trevor Crist -- Stowe, VT

I'm supporting Matt Dunne because he has the vision, experience, leadership skills and energy to lead our state when all four qualities are desperately needed.

I also believe that he is the only candidate who has the ability to beat Brian Dubie having almost done so in 06.

Andrea Stander
Montpelier

Whoever wins the job in November will have a full plate. Our problems are like a very large darkening storm on the horizon that is coming this way with a world of hurt. We have done many of the little things that have served us well as we entered this downturn in our fortunes, but what remains are the large systemic changes that will not only get us through this rough stretch, but pave the way to a brighter future. Any of the candidates have the management skills to tweak the system and force some new efficiency and maybe save a buck or two, but Matt has the experience and background for promoting the long overdue innovative systemic change that we all know is so desperately needed. I said it back in January, and it is still true now, every job he has ever had were stepping stones to the greatest job he will ever do: Leave the state for generations to come in better shape than it's ever been. I'm sure some of his motivation is
selfish: Their third child is due any day now.

This is what I saw the other night that set Matt Dunne apart from the other candidates, and the realization sent chills down my spine. Matt Dunne has the charisma to help us to make the tough choices, the confidence to lead us into an uncertain future, the humility to always ask for the best guidance, and the background that makes him uniquely qualified for the job. You just know that Matt Dunne will inspire the best and the brightest around him to give their all. Watching Matt Dunne during that debate I just knew I was listening to the next great governor from Vermont.

We need to make Matt Dunne governor! Vote in the August 24 primary or get an absentee ballot.

- Kurt Staudter

Peak Oil, climate change and the Great Recession require that we remake our economy in the 21st century. This will mean bold thinking and action guided by leadership that understands how to engage the best of government, private sector and non-profits in a long term and collaborative strategy for Vermont to take full advantage of our assets, strengths and opportunities. I have seen Matt Dunne provide this leadership.

Will Raap
Chairman, The Earth Partners
Founder, Gardener's Supply

Matt Dunne has the right combination of experience, new ideas and leadership skills to bring the next generation of jobs to Vermont. Matt’s ability to recognize the assets and challenges of operating a technology business in Vermont shows he has what it takes to make our state a leader in the 21st century economy.

Mike Lane
Chief Operating OFficer, Dealer.com

I am supporting Matt Dunne for two main reasons. First, Matt has both a vision for growing the economy in Vermont and a solid plan on how to get us there. Second, he is working to hold on to our younger generation and help those who have left Vermont in search of better career opportunities come home. I believe it is critical to our long term economic prosperity in Vermont that we support our working families with a robust economy and Matt will help us achieve success in that area.

Sen. Matt Choate
Caledonia County

He understands better than most that although the Governor has to provide a vision, you can't do it all by yourself as a governor. He knows that he has to empower other people. We have a lot of people with a lot of ideas who are willing to work hard but they need some help getting started or expanding. Matt really recognizes that.

Rep. Chip Conquest
Wells River, VT

As we know, Vermont is a very special place and should be led by a Governor who believes in Vermont. Matt Dunne represents that Vermont spirit.

Rep. Anne Mook
Bennington, VT

I support Matt because we need a fresh start with someone who has a common sense leadership of what Vermonters are facing in these tough economic times in Vermont.

Rep. Robert South
St. Johnsbury, VT

Matt Dunne was my representative and neighbor. He is my friend and I hope he will be our next Governor. Matt has the judgment, vision, and passion to be a great chief executive for Vermont.

Robert Sand
States Attorney of Windsor County

Working with Matt in the legislature, I saw what he could do. He is a young, energetic, pragmatic leader, who is always thoughtful in his decision making. Actions speak louder than words, and his actions while serving in the legislature show that he has what it takes to lead Vermont.

Daryl Pillsbury
Former State Representative
Brattleboro Select Board Member