Sen. Claire Ayer, D-Addison, who was expected to become the next Senate majority leader, has dropped out of the running.
Ayer told the Burlington Free Press that she wants to remain the chair of the Senate Health and Welfare Committee because she is concerned that anti-single payer groups will try to put health care reform “back in the box.” The state passed Act 48, a framework for a universal health care system, in 2010.
Sen. Bill Carris, D-Rutland, the majority leader last session, announced last month that he is retiring from the Senate because of health problems.
The majority leader plays a crucial, organizational role in the Senate. Ayer, who is a well-liked leader in the Senate, was widely viewed as a top candidate for the slot.
Senate President Pro Tem John Campbell says though he “personally would have loved to have Ayer as majority leader, the state will be better served with her as chair of health care rather than in the majority leader position.”
Campbell says Sen. Philip Baruth has expressed interest in the position.
“From a majority leader standpoint, he has credibility on both sides,” Campbell said. “Clearly, he is one of more liberal members of the caucus who is respected on the left and the right.”
The Senate Democrats will hold a caucus this week to determine who will chair committees. Sources say Sen. Ann Cummings, D-Washington, will not seek a chair position. Cummings, who ran against Campbell for the pro tem position, most recently served as chair of the Senate Finance Committee.
