John Rodgers, the new lieutenant governor of Vermont, is not your typical politician. Just two days after being sworn in, he traded his suit for a flannel shirt and Carhartt hoodie to plow driveways in his rusty Ford truck, supplementing his income from stonemasonry, hemp, and marijuana sales. Rodgers, a fifth-generation Vermonter, is known for representing blue-collar Vermonters that feel left out of the political discussion in Montpelier.
In a surprising turn of events, Rodgers, a conservative Democrat turned Republican, defeated the incumbent Progressive/Democrat lieutenant governor to win one of the biggest political upsets in Vermont’s history. His victory signifies a trend towards more conservative politics focused on affordability, with Rodgers aiming to bridge the gap between the legislature and the people back home.
Rodgers’ strong conservationist ethic is evident in his management of his property as wildlife habitat and his opposition to certain environmental policies, such as large-scale wind and solar projects, which he believes are harmful and costly. While his environmental record is controversial, supporters praise his authenticity and relatability, which led to his unexpected win in the lieutenant governor race.
Despite facing criticism and controversy throughout his career, Rodgers remains determined and focused on his goals. With aspirations of potentially running for governor in the future, he hopes to continue his mission of representing working-class Vermonters and bringing about positive change in the state.
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