Vermont’s three members of Congress have served a combined 93 years in the U.S. House and Senate. They’ve accrued an unusual amount of power and influence for one small-state delegation. But they won’t remain in Washington, D.C., forever.
Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., and Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., — both octogenarians — are up for reelection in 2022 and 2024, respectively. The third member of the delegation, Rep. Peter Welch, D-Vt., is thought to be interested in succeeding Leahy or Sanders if either retires.
A vacancy could represent a once-in-a-generation chance to reshape Vermont’s congressional delegation, and it would surely trigger many more down-ballot contests. Join VTDigger for a virtual conversation about the future of the delegation on Tuesday, October 5 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
What would a vacancy mean for the way Vermonters are represented in Congress, and how might it affect the federal resources upon which we rely? Would voters look to elect a more diverse and representative delegation? Would a Republican stand a chance? How have congressional campaigns changed since Vermont last saw an opening in its delegation, nearly 16 years ago?
VTDigger will explore these questions and more in a forum featuring veteran political professionals Liz Bankowski, Dennise Casey and Julia Barnes, as well as VTDigger political reporter Lola Duffort and managing editor Paul Heintz.
What questions do you have about the future of Vermont’s congressional delegation? We want to hear from you! Submit your questions for the panelists below.
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