Dear Editor,
In October, I announced my campaign to be Vermont’s next Speaker of the House. Today, after an election that eliminated the House supermajority, I want to acknowledge the challenges we face, share why I’m stepping forward and outline my vision for how the Legislature can shift priorities and address Vermonters’ most urgent needs.
Affordability is a big worry for most Vermonters right now. Inflation, housing costs, rising insurance premiums, and property taxes have become unsustainable. Our education and healthcare systems are severely strained and need both stabilization and reform. These challenges are compounded by climate adaptation, emerging from Covid-19, shifting demographics, and an increasingly globalized economy. Vermonters deserve responsive leadership. With voters clearly demanding meaningful progress, I’m running for Speaker to break the current gridlock and set an agenda that delivers on Vermonters’ needs.
Growing up as the eldest of 12 children in rural poverty, I’m hardwired to solve problems. I took on responsibilities early—supporting my younger siblings, standing by my brothers through their military service, and helping my mother keep our family on track. I raised my own daughters while balancing multiple jobs, later meeting my husband and growing our family. Stepping into an executive role at the Chamber of Commerce, I led a revitalization effort that increased revenue, membership, and staff. These experiences challenged me to the core, pushing me to seek support when needed, persevere, and work hard alongside anyone who was committed to making things better.
My life has taught me that problem-solving isn’t just about having the right answers; it’s about having the right mindset. Progress requires focus, discomfort, and persistence, along with creating space for others to engage and bring forward solutions. Positive change is possible through focused hard work and intentional collaboration.
Currently leadership has reached a political standstill. While the governor’s focus on affordability is important, his administration’s cautious approach has left some of our biggest challenges unaddressed.
Current House leaders, on the other hand, have been hesitant on complex issues, waiting for the political winds to change instead of working with all of the public officials Vermonters have elected to solve the problems Vermonters need solved. The Republican gains in the House that we saw on Election Day show that Vermonters are calling for leadership that prioritizes progress on our priorities over partisanship.
My goal is to break the stalemate, set a clear direction, and work with anyone and everyone who’s ready to make progress bringing Vermont forward.
I’m prepared to lead the House in a new direction—collaborative, focused, and transparent—to ensure Vermont is moving toward a more affordable, sustainable, and prepared future.
Laura H. Sibilia, Dover
Vermont State Representative for Dover, Readsboro, Searsburg, Somerset, Stamford, Wardsboro, Whitingham
