To the editor: Rep. Goldman backs Chase for state Senate

It was an honor and a privilege to work with Heather Chase when she represented Windsor-Windham in the 2023-2024 legislative session of the House of Representatives.

Her work ethic was remarkable, fueled by curiosity and persistence. She did not determine her vote either in the Commerce Committee, where she served, or in the House until she fully and deeply understood the issue, looking at it from all points of view, implications and analyzing potential unintended consequences. She would have lively conversations with both those who agreed and disagreed with her, but always respectful and kind.

Heather’s nursing background as well as founding and running a small business for 30 years informs her analytical processes. She looks carefully at data, both subjective and objective, then forms an assessment. From that assessment flows a plan which includes implementation and evaluation. She helped me and my colleagues understand complex legislation that had important statewide impact and was always available for discussion and debate.

She has been a southern Windsor County resident for decades serving her local community of Chester in multiple capacities and raising her 4 children there. Her knowledge of Windsor County runs deep!

And importantly, Heather’s position on issues reflects her values and supports Vermonters. This includes supporting universal primary care, building the health care workforce and therefore improving access, expanding downtown and village centers where water, sewer and roads already exist and therefore increasing housing, reinvesting in southern Windsor County’s aging housing stock, and supporting small businesses.

Heather‘s experience serving in the House would allow her to start in the Senate ready to participate fully. This is important as the Legislature is a very complicated system and Heather would be able to start doing meaningful work on day one. She understands that healthcare costs drive property taxes and can dive into that problem immediately. She is able to speak her truth clearly and is always willing to listen to others wherever they are coming from.

I strongly believe that Heather Chase will be an excellent senator representing Windsor County and urge voters to support her in the primary on Tuesday, Aug. 11. Early voting ballots for the primary can be requested by visiting vote.vermont.gov.

Rep. Leslie Goldman|
Rockingham