Jonathan West Announces Candidacy for State Senate
Jonathan West, a 10th-generation Vermonter, active community leader, and member of the Manchester Selectboard, has officially announced his candidacy to replace the late Senator Dick Sears on the ballot for the upcoming November election. West will not pursue a write-in campaign, instead focusing on earning the nomination through the support of the Bennington County Democratic Committee and delegates from Windham County (Londonderry, Stratton and Wilmington are part of the senate district) as outlined by Vermont election law. "We have a responsibility to support Senator Sears' final candidacy as a tribute to his exceptional service to Bennington County," West stated. "His name is on the Democratic Primary ballot, and voting for him honors his legacy of commitment and dedication.”
"I must jump into this race because I feel so strongly about what needs to be done. We need a candidate who genuinely understands and has experienced the same exact challenges our neighbors are facing every single day, someone who will fight for every Vermonter," West emphasized.
West's campaign will champion affordable housing for all, safeguard our environment, revamp our restorative justice programs, and build a stronger, more reliable transportation system that works for every Vermonter.
With a strong focus on making Bennington County more affordable, creating sustainable housing solutions, and preserving Vermont's natural beauty by preparing for the effects of climate change, West aims to build a broad coalition that supports the hard-working and dedicated residents and businesses across the county.
West also plans to emphasize the importance of unity and a collective approach to governance, especially in the current climate of national political uncertainty. "Now is the time to foster the next generation of leaders while continuing to champion the causes of the late Senator Sears with renewed energy and drive," he stated.
"Vermonters deserve the chance to stay in Vermont, and we must do everything we can to make sure our children can afford to call this place home. If I'm chosen as the nominee for the November ballot, I'll make sure every voice in our community, big and small, is heard, respected, and part of a united effort to build a brighter, sustainable, and more affordable future."
As a parent of four children adopted through the foster care system, West is fiercely dedicated to promoting compassionate restorative justice. An approach that prioritizes healing, reconciliation, and community support. This issue is deeply personal to him because it highlights how we, as a community, have failed to help families stay together. The struggles faced by the biological parents of his children are not unique; hundreds of other families in Bennington County face similar challenges. By adopting this approach, we can provide the necessary support and second chances to prevent the separation of families in the first place.
"We need to create a safe community where everyone has a fair shot at success, and it's up to us, as Vermonters, to lead the charge. From his challenging childhood to his fight for restorative justice, adoptee rights, and civil rights, Senator Sears' story is deeply intertwined with my family's journey. I am committed to carrying forward his legacy and building on it for the future generations of Vermonters."
West, elected to the Manchester Selectboard in March, is dedicated to continue serving in that role. He made a promise to the people of Manchester and will continue to serve for as long as he can make a real, positive difference for his neighbors and for as long as they will allow him to. "Across Vermont, many state legislators also serve on their town's selectboards, a tradition that only strengthens our communities. Together, we can keep fighting for what's right and ensure our voices are heard in Montpelier."
For more information or to support Jonathan West's campaign for State Senate, please contact him at jonathan@westforvermont.com or visit westforvermont.com.
