To the Editor:

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the people of Jamaica, Londonderry, Stratton, Weston, and Winhall who took the time to vote. If you voted for me, I am deeply grateful for your support and your confidence. I will do my very best to live up to your expectations.

I also want to salute my opponent, Claire Trask, for stepping up and running a spirited campaign. During our two forums and in her conversations with constituents on the campaign trail, Claire talked about important issues, listened carefully, and brought forward ideas. Running for office is not easy, but the health of the democratic process is dependent on competition, which is why it is so important that people who want to be part of a solution put themselves forward as candidates.

Likewise, I would also like to thank those who voted for Claire. You exercised your right and your responsibility as Vermonters and Americans. We may not agree on specific issues, but I am confident we all want the same thing: a bright future for our state, its people and our children. If you have not already done so, I would encourage you to reach out to me to share your perspective on the issues that are important to you.

The campaign and the election energized me. The comments, questions, and suggestions I heard from the many people I met will guide my actions in Montpelier, and I look forward with hope and optimism.

These are difficult times. The new Legislature and administration will face a multitude of complicated, vexing issues and problems, which do not lend themselves to black and white answers. Difficult times call for rational thought, careful study, and cooperation.

As many of you know, my wife Peggy gave birth to our second child Karsten just a few weeks ago. To me, that puts the significance of this election into perspective. As a father of two young children, I understand how critical the next few years will be for the future of our state.

So just as I promised to run a positive campaign, I pledge now to carry that spirit of civility and respect to the Statehouse. I will work to find consensus amongst Democrats, Republicans, Progressives and independents as we work toward solving the challenges before us. At the same time, I won’t be afraid to challenge the status quo and ask the hard questions.

Above all, my highest priority will remain you, the people I represent, and I will always be accessible, open, and responsive to you.

Oliver Olsen

Jamaica