A Run for Governor?
March 17, 2008
Hello folks, it’s semi-official. After being approached and encouraged by many people, I am now actively considering a run for governor of Vermont under the banner of the Progressive Party. It has become clear to me and others that a true third-party choice is necessary in this upcoming election.
The only declared candidate for governor in the Progressive or Democratic parties is Anthony Pollina, and he has been seemingly more interested in playing footsie with the powers-that-be than offering a true alternative to them. I, on the other hand, believe in the importance and necessity of building an alternative base to politics as usual amongst the dominant two parties.
I think it’s important for a progressive to be in this race to offer a true contrast to the failings of the other major parties when it comes to stopping the war, providing health care for all, addressing economic inequality and celebrating and protecting Vermont’s natural resources.
You know who I am: an activist, writer, musician, farm-husband and – over the last six-years – a horseman. I believe in Vermont, especially in its deep and powerful independent streak. But I am concerned and disheartened when those claiming to honor that heritage become victims of the urge to dilute their passions in the pursuit of political power – a most distasteful cocktail that says one and only one thing to the voters: Manipulation.
I believe that Vermonters are ready and yearning for a political candidate who speaks truth to power, who will not mince words when it comes to the problems we are facing, who understands the Vermont way of living, who won’t talk about being for change but purr in the face of the same old, same old political forces, and who won’t call themselves an “alternative” but bow at the altar of the power elite.
As a resident of this state for nearly 20 years, I understand its unique nature. I understand its powerful possibilities. I believe in its ability to lead. And I have done nothing but fight for its right – and responsibility — to persevere as a leader for change in a nation drifting toward a rut of complacency and, worse, inequality.
Yes, Vermonters, it’s time for change. But that change must be led by true change agents – not the same old hucksters and political players.
Governor Jim Douglas must be defeated. He has steadfastly supported George Bush at nearly every opportunity – including serving as his Vermont campaign chairman. Moreover, Douglas has happily slept in the Bush White House while Vermonters have suffered from the presidential policies that have led us to perpetual war, to economic catastrophe, to $3.25 gas prices, to support for torture, and to a new and heightened sense of disenfranchisement from our nation’s democratic ideals.
Yes, Douglas must go. That much is obvious – just ask yourself if you’re better off now than when Douglas first took office in 2002? And then ask yourself if Douglas – or the Democrats – have done ANYTHING that has lessened your family’s economic burden or provided your family with true hope for the future?
Vermonters deserve true change. And I’m humbled by this pursuit and look forward to your input.
All the best,
Michael Colby
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I knew it. I told you so. You heard it from me first, folks. El Moldo does it again!
[...] dhblog11nHHe has steadfastly supported martyr Dubya at nearly every existence – including transfer as his Vermont push chairman. Moreover, leader has blithely slept in the Dubya White House connector Vermonters impact suffered from the statesmanly … [...]
mentor/manager? let’s start getting signatures!
Mikey,
Please say you’re kidding. You in the ring with Douglas and Pollina? It demeans you. It honors them.
Stay behind the rear ends of real horses.
d
Yeeehhhhaaaa! Governor Colby. I like the sound of that.
[...] Thanks for all the feedback on yesterday’s post. And while I understand that most of it came in the form of private emails and calls, I’m going [...]
I demand IRV, single payer healthcare, that corporations be stripped of their Bill of Rights protection, and that Joe Strummer’s birthday be declared an annual holiday…none of this one time only crap.