Our campaign focuses on the issues that matter to Vermonters
James Ehlers believes in a people-first economy that invests in schools, working families and the middle class. Vermonters are struggling to afford to live here. We can fix that by requiring corporations to pay wages that meet basic needs; supporting the finest childcare and public school programs in the nation; growing new jobs by investing in public infrastructure and downtowns; and ensuring that no one goes bankrupt due to basic healthcare needs. James will bring people together to find solutions to Vermont’s most pressing environmental problems- the deterioration of our water quality and climate change. In the process, Vermont can become a national leader in the green economy.
Instead of ascribing to failed trickle-down policies, James will support a grassroots, people-first government that invests in our communities. James Ehlers has been a strong advocate for the environment and working people for decades. He will continue to advocate tirelessly for Vermont values as governor and bring the voice and concerns of working people back to the governor’s office.
Healthcare is a human right.
No individual should have to go without healthcare. The Vermont we want to live in is one where people can go to the doctor if they need to—not one where people can’t get their basic cancer screenings, immunizations or emergency treatment. That is why James supports universal healthcare, including vision and dental.
Paid Family Leave.
No one should fear financial ruin when a loved one needs care. All of Vermont’s workers should have twelve weeks of paid family leave that doesn’t rely on workers alone to contribute, but instead includes state and employer support.
Women’s Reproductive Rights.
James strongly supports a woman’s right to choose and will always defend and support increasing funding for Planned Parenthood.
Affordable Childcare.
We must increase investment in the Childcare Financial Assistance Program, which has been underfunded for years. Families spend far too much of their income on childcare and this has to change.
Raise the Wage.
All workers deserve a wage that affords basic needs of healthy food, healthcare, childcare, and a warm, safe home. A $15 minimum wage by 2024 isn’t enough to keep up with inflation and basic needs.
Combat opiate crisis.
Ending the stigma related to addiction is absolutely critical. Safe injection sites will help reduce illness and infection and help prevent overdoses. We must also invest heavily in addiction prevention and recovery.
Water Quality.
For far too long, Vermont’s waterways have been neglected-leading to devastating consequences. As Executive Director of Lake Champlain International, James has been a champion of clean water. James’ unique expertise and leadership on this issue will deliver results. A comprehensive plan to save Vermont’s waterways involves tackling existing pollution, curtailing future pollution and creating public policy to ensure Vermont’s waterways never get to this point again.
Campaign Finance Reform.
We need comprehensive campaign finance reform to ensure the voices of individuals aren’t drowned out by corporations and dark money. James will work tirelessly to limit the influence of money in elections, and he has never accepted a penny of corporate cash.
Tax & Regulate Marijuana.
Vermont is prepared to tax and regulate marijuana to ensure public freedom and safety, instead of taking an outdated “war on drugs” approach. This would raise a projected $5.6-8.7 million each year to invest in education and public safety after the first year.
Economic Development.
We will attract people to all fourteen of Vermont’s counties by investing in our schools, infrastructure, and people-first policy that makes working families want to live here.
Schools.
We must invest in public schools instead of trying to pass cuts that will hurt them. James will support the teachers who help our students thrive instead of trying to cut their healthcare benefits.
Renewable energy.
James supports investing in community-based wind, water and solar energy projects to combat climate change and make Vermont a leader in the development of renewables.
Oppose F-35 Basing at Burlington International Airport.
James strongly opposes basing weapons of war with nuclear capability at Burlington International Airport and would instead replace it with a medical, humanitarian mission. Many Vermonters in the area have spoken up against this basing and James believes it is the responsibility of leaders to listen to their voices.
Anti-discrimination.
It is essential that our state promote equal justice, economic opportunity, and political power for all, regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, nationality or economic status. We must celebrate our differences and fight against discrimination it occurs.
Disabilities & Independent Living.
We must increase investment in programs that support the full integration, independence, and civil rights of Vermonters with disabilities.
Unions and Workers’ Rights.
Strong unions are good for workers and the economy by lifting up wages, benefits, and morale for everyone who works. Workers who are paid fairly and treated with respect are more productive and put money into our local economy so that everyone benefits. James will appoint members to the Vermont Labor Review Board who support workers.
Firearm safety
James strongly supports common-sense firearm safety measures such as robust background checks, increased wait times, and protecting Vermonters in domestic violence situations. As a US Navy veteran, award-winning hunting guide, former school teacher, childhood survivor of domestic violence, and a proud father of four young children, James will bring all parties to the table to create smart public policy that will respect Vermonters’ rights to own a firearm while ensuring that people can be safe in their schools, homes and communities.
