Sen. John Rodgers (D-Essex/Orleans), one of the most vocal opponents of gun control in the Vermont Statehouse, said Tuesday that he’s considering a run for governor.
“There’s a lot of support out there,” Rodgers said. “I’m definitely thinking about it.”
The right-leaning Democrat from Glover could capitalize on a wave of anger directed at Republican Gov. Phil Scott, who is poised to sign a package of gun control bills Wednesday. Previously a stalwart opponent of such measures, Scott reversed his stance in February after learning of an alleged school shooting plot in Fair Haven.
At a Statehouse press conference held with other lawmakers Tuesday, Rodgers reiterated his opposition to S.55, a bill that would mandate universal background checks, raise the purchasing age for guns from 18 to 21, limit high-capacity magazines and ban bump stocks.
Rodgers, 52, told Seven Days that he would likely run as a Democrat but hasn’t ruled out running as a Republican or independent. He acknowledged that winning the Democratic primary could be difficult: “Rural Democrats love me. The more urban left-leaning Democrats don’t love me so much.”
Three Democrats — Christine Hallquist, James Ehlers and Ethan Sonneborn — have already declared their candidacies for the November election. Keith Stern, another vocal gun proponent, has registered to run as a Republican.
Ultimately, Rodgers said, “I could be comfortable with any letter beside my name.”
WPTZ-TV first reported Rodgers’ potential run.
This isn’t the first time the senator has publicly floated the idea of a bid for higher office. He ultimately decided against a run for lieutenant governor in 2016.
Rodgers said concerns about his livelihood are the only thing holding him back. He runs a small construction company and plans to launch a hemp business with his son this summer. Balancing those obligations with a statewide campaign “seems like a pretty heavy lift,” he said.
Scott’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
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My vote will be going to Keith Stern who is for the 2nd Amendment and for the Vermont Constitution gun rights. Stern for Governor.
Someone is given a small decision, like a haircut. They decide that a bowl cut and a mustache is a good choice. Do we, the people, really want to give them bigger decisions to make, like running the government? Does that really seem like a good idea?
I cant imagine Rodgers as the person running our state government. The school boy running would most likely be more effective. There isnt a lot of doubt that the NRA lunatics will support him but hopefully the rest of the electorate will have more common sense than to shudder in fear at a few, common sense gun control laws.
After reading his thoughts on common sense gun laws, I would have a hard time voting for him, no matter which party he runs under.
This is the type of leader Vermont needs at this time. John you have got my support.
Run, John, Run! That way we can get rid of you as a useless Senator.
Has my vote
I would not support John Rodgers for Governor, or for anything, ever.