“Been there, done that” does not apply to Howard Dean, Vermont’s longest-serving governor, who says he’s thinking about reapplying for the job he held from August 1991 through Jan. 8, 2003.
No one saw that coming.
If Mr. Dean were to win, he would be 76 years old upon taking office, joining Sen. Peter Welch, who would be 77, and Sen. Bernie Sanders who would be 83 [assuming he runs for reelection, a decision he must make by the end of May]. Gov. Phil Scott, Mr. Dean’s assumed opponent, would be a youngster at 65.
No ageism here.
So, what’s the takeaway?
First and foremost, Mr. Dean would not be considering the job if the Democrats had a contender anyone thought had a chance at beating Mr. Scott. They don’t. Neither do the Progressives. [Besides, Mr. Dean’s always rather enjoyed the limelight and has a boatload of self-confidence. Why not?]
It would also be a mistake to underestimate Mr. Dean’s energy or his familiarity with Vermont’s challenges. It’s been two decades since he has been governor but the core issues remain: the mess that’s our educational system, the challenge of putting together an affordable healthcare system, the demographics of a state that is quickly aging, and the cost of living here.
It’s probably a fair guess that Mr. Dean’s motivation to run is in direct proportion to his frustration with the state’s inability to get much done. He would not be considering the race otherwise. Statewide campaigns are grueling. You don’t commit your time and energy to the campaign trail for the next six months just to stave off a little boredom.
His assumed frustrations aside, the prospect of Mr. Dean running for governor will stir the imagination as well as the memories of his 10-plus years as Vermont’s governor. Which Howard Dean would we see? The fiscal conservative who twice lowered income taxes and had 11 balanced budgets? The governor who aligned himself with Blue Dog Democrats in opposition to the most liberal wing of the party and the state’s Progressives? Or would we get the more liberal Howard Dean, the one that moved to the left as he ran for president, and then took over the Democratic National Committee?
Regardless, Mr. Dean would be a challenger on a higher level than any Mr. Scott has faced in his last three elections. He has the necessary name recognition. He would be able to raise the money. And he’s a seasoned campaigner, one unlikely to make the mistakes of someone new to the process.
Most important, he has little to lose. Not that he would be happy losing, but he would be more inclined to say what he thinks needs to be said, rather than specializing in the doublespeak more typical of politicians who are at the beginning of their political careers.
That would be as refreshing as it is vital. Vermonters need to understand the massive challenges ahead and be part of an ambiguous discussion about how best to address them.
Mr. Dean understands the challenge he would be facing. Mr. Scott is the state’s most popular politician and he’s highly skilled in defending the state’s needs and his ability to meet them. Mr. Dean would not intimidate him, to the contrary a race against Mr. Dean would probably bring out the best in Mr. Scott.
Two strong, clear voices vying for the most important job in Vermont, at the most crucial time.
Sounds ideal.
by Emerson Lynn
