ABOUT VPIRG VOTES

WHAT IS VPIRG VOTES?

VPIRG Votes was established in 2020 as a 527 organization with the Internal Revenue Service for the purpose of endorsing public interest champions for elected office. The organization is funded separately from the Vermont Public Interest Research Group and files regular financial disclosures with the Vermont Secretary of State. Endorsement decisions are made by a panel of experts informed by candidate questionnaires, interviews and the public record.

In 2024, the VPIRG Votes Action Fund, an independent expenditure-only organization, will support endorsed candidates ahead of the August 13 primary. VPIRG Votes PAC will support endorsed candidates in the general election.

ADVISORY BOARD

  • Diana González, Winooski, VT

  • Lauren Hierl, Montpelier, VT

  • Duane Peterson, Waterbury, VT

  • Leslie Cadwell, Castleton, VT

  • Evelyn Seidner, Burlington, VT

Our Endorsement Criteria

  • Lifetime VPIRG legislative scorecard rating (as applicable)

  • Life experience

  • Whether the candidate will enhance diversity

  • Public interest leadership

  • Professional resume

  • History of collaboration with VPIRG

  • Stated positions on VPIRG priorities

  • Commitment to listening, learning and partnering

  • Strength of campaign

  • Membership in Climate Solutions Caucus (as applicable)

  • Whether the candidate has accepted corporate contributions