Editor’s note: This op-ed is by Peter Wellman of Bennington, who is a member of Campaign for Vermont.
I’ve followed the ups and downs of our state government for many years. Like most Vermonters, I believe in the core beliefs of the democratic process, but worry that our political system has gotten off the rail with too much extreme partisanship and special interests on both ends of the spectrum.
The influence of lobbyists and special interests in directing our government seems excessive at times and unchecked. These organizations are supposed to represent the best interests of our citizens, should be transparent and always be fully disclosing their purpose, those they serve, their funding and mission.
I, for one, am concerned that our brightest and most creative people are not being drawn into the discussion for fear of engaging in a highly politicized environment.
Each side of the political spectrum has good ideas to offer, but unfortunately many of those ideas are being lost in a battle of political ideology. Often, instead of focusing on the issues and how to reach consensus, the focus is on attacking and dwelling on things that are not helping reach a solution that serves the greater majority.
One organization that seems to be trying very hard to keep the focus on solutions instead of the “we vs. you” battle is Campaign for Vermont (CFV). Here we have an individual, Bruce Lisman, who has put his time and money into generating real thought about issues. Both he and CFV have generated thoughtful position papers on important issues for Vermont, solicited our input and brought different viewpoints together to try and reach a consensus. Whether or not you agree completely with all the statements or positions of CFV, it’s clear that a great deal of deliberation has gone into this effort and that all sides are welcome to engage in the process.
I, for one, am concerned that our brightest and most creative people are not being drawn into the discussion for fear of engaging in a highly politicized environment. CFV offers all folks, regardless of their views, the opportunity to add to the conversation and help us reach a consensus that meets the needs of the large center between the extremes.
It is good news that an organization such as CFV is building a broad-based coalition, with nearly 500 partners (including me) not to mention over 1,500 Facebook friends and 5,000 email subscribers. The numbers are growing and are very representative of what a democratic grassroots citizen initiative should look like.
I am enthusiastic that CFV offers a forum for Vermonters to work together and put progress ahead of the partisanship. Real discussions about issues will bring more talented individuals into the conversation and generate thoughtful solutions that will help Vermonters stay in Vermont and prosper. Take time to visit the website www.CampaignForVermont.org, offer your thoughts and consider joining CFV.
