Democracy for America Endorses Gaye Symington for Governor

Released: Oct 22, 2008 12:29 PM

Released:  Thursday, October 2, 2008

BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation's largest progressive political action community, has endorsed Gaye Symington’s campaign for governor of Vermont.  

"Gaye Symington is a fantastic candidate with a long record of achievement," said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA.  "Democracy for America is proud to endorse her campaign."

As Speaker of the House for the past four years and a Representative for twelve years, Gaye Symington has a record of bringing people together to tackle tough issues and get results. She's been widely praised for working in a nonpartisan way to make progress on fair school funding, access to healthcare, civil rights, energy efficiency and growing Vermont's rural economy.

Other priorities as Speaker include bringing broadband service to all corners of Vermont, providing support for workforce development, addressing climate change and planning for Vermont's energy future.

Before entering politics, Gaye was a senior fiscal manager for non-profits, started a whole grain bakery, and was a volunteer leader in her community. She earned a B.A. from Williams College and an MBA from Cornell University.

Democracy for America is a key endorsement in this race, bringing donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach.  DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Donna Edwards in Maryland’s 4th Congressional District.

"I'm honored to receive the endorsement of Democracy for America which is such a strong force for change in our party and our nation,” said Speaker Symington.  “Their support is crucial because my victory depends on waging the kind of effective grassroots campaign that DFA is known for.  I'm very grateful that DFA has chosen to stand with me in this effort to bring Vermont the change it needs."

"In Vermont, we face challenges like job creation and infrastructure investment, repair, and renewal.  Only Gaye Symington offers Vermonters a real, progressive vision and plan," said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of DFA.  "Gaye Symington will bring her experience and wisdom to the Governor’s office for the benefit of everyone in the state."

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