Updated 10 a.m. June 13: As is now reflected in this story, Ingram also serves on the Williston Selectboard.
Debbie Ingram, a community organizer in Burlington, announced her run for the state Senate representing Chittenden County. Ingram joins five others who have submitted petitions to represent the six-seat district: Ed Adrian (D), Richard “Terry” Jeroloman (P), Bob Kiss (I), Robert Letovsky (I) and Shelley Palmer (R/Tea Party).
Ingram’s focal issues are concentrated on low-income citizens, with special attention to housing and transportation, “sustaining supportive communities” and polishing up health care reform.
“I think we really need to finish what is started and lead the nation in fixing our broken health care system,” Ingram said.
As for supportive communities, Ingram elaborated: making sure child care and elder care are affordable and accessible, keeping crime low and constantly seeking to improve education are all part of a supportive community. Ingram suggested on-site care for elders, which she says would save Vermonters money.
Not all of this should necessarily be paid for by the state, Ingram said.
“I’d like to see more public/private partnerships,” she said, such as that in the mental health system.
Ingram says her day job as a community organizer – “like President Obama used to be,” she notes with enthusiasm – gives her a clear idea of the issues facing Chittenden County, and her residence in Williston, where she also serves on the Selectboard, allows her to see the issues that exists outside Burlington.
“I think I’m unique in all the candidates in really understanding all the issues that face this county and this Senate district,” she said.
