Sounding like someone who is eager to run, travel agency owner Scott Milne told WDEV’s The Mark Johnson Show on Thursday that he is still not ready to commit to challenging Gov. Peter Shumlin.
Milne, a North Pomfret Republican who is president of Milne Travel American Express, said he was “interested” in a run for governor but suggested he might only do so if there were a GOP primary. He said the party would benefit by starting the discussion earlier in the summer, rather than waiting until the traditional Labor Day kickoff of the general election season.
The only declared candidate for the GOP nomination is Emily Peyton of Putney, who does not have the party’s support. If Milne was to declare, a primary would be guaranteed. But it appears that Milne wants a higher profile Republican, such as 2012 gubernatorial runner-up Randy Brock, to jump in before he commits.
Milne said that if he decides to run, he would likely present his petition to appear on the ballot June 12, the last day for candidates to file.
Milne joked with Johnson that the only sure way he would avoid the race is if WDEV owner Ken Squier announced a bid.
