Our deep respect for the land and its harvest is the legacy of generations of farmers who put food on our tables, preserved our landscape, and inspired us with a powerful work ethic.

By virtue of my traditions, and my community, I worked hard to ensure that I was accepted as part of the traditional family of America.

Our forbears worked hard this difficult land, and their reward was the freedom and independence of self-sufficiency.

I don't believe it is in the state's interest to industrialize our ridge lines.

I am often reminded that the wellspring of Vermont liberty flows from Main Street, not State Street.

Our deep respect for the land and its harvest is the legacy of generations of farmers who put food on our tables, preserved our landscape, and inspired us with a powerful work ethic.

So I come before you with a budget that is honest in its discussion of our challenges, creative in its possible solutions, compassionate in its commitment to our most vulnerable, and balanced on the bottom line.