Why I am Running as A Democrat

In the weeks following my announcement for the Colchester/Grand Isle Senate District, I received many ​questions from the community. Thank you for reaching out! Many wanted to know more about my party ​affiliation and reasons for running. Here’s why I’m running and why I’m a Democrat.

It’s not because I always agree with the direction of the party.

How we are represented in the State House matters profoundly to me. Around 40% of Vermonters ​consider themselves independent voters. Our deep sense of independence is one of many things that ​make me proud to be a Vermonter. A good representative listens and responds to their constituents – ​those who vote for them and those who don’t.

I am a Democrat because I often agree with the party's social positions. For example, I support ​reproductive freedom and enshrining equal rights in our state constitution. I don’t always agree with ​every approach of the Democratic Party, but I consistently see a party that is welcoming to many, not ​exclusive to a few.

I tend to be more moderate and fiscally conservative. Ethics, accountability, and fiscal responsibility in ​governance are key for me. After 12 years in municipal government, I understand the importance of ​approaching fiscal policy judiciously. Each decision in Montpelier affects our neighbors' pocketbooks ​and their ability to care for their families. Therefore each decision must be weighed carefully, and our ​Legislators must be cautious in their appr​o​ach.

Last summer, I became the chair of the Colchester Democrats because I noticed growing tension​ in our political landscape. My hope was to foster collaboration among local Democrats, Republica​ns, and Progressives wherever possible. In March, together with the chairs of the Colchester Republic​ans and Progressives, I co-hosted a Legislative Town Hall for the community. I believe access to our legis​lators, healthy discourse, and collaboration are crucial to the future of our state. We must remember ​that we are neighbors first and be open to engaging with each other on the issues that matter to our comm​u​nity.

I'm running because I believe significant change is needed, and I think I have the experience, skil​ls, and relationships built on mutual respect to make an impact. No matter the outcome of the ele​ction,

if by running, I can use the little bit of the spotlight that I will get as a candidate to shift our po​litical landscape toward collaboration and moderation and away from division and ext​remism

- I see that as ​a win.

Paid for by Julie Hulburd for Vermont - Seth Chase Treasurer - PO ​Box 482 Colchester VT 05446