Dara Torre
Dara Torre (Democratic) of Moretown is an incumbent Vermont Representative representing the Washington-2 district in the 2025-2026 General Assembly, and works as WA-2 State Representative since 2023, previous public service roles in local and regional planning.
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What is one part of Vermont’s economy or cost of living that needs greater attention from elected officials?: “State government has to become more agile and innovative than ever given damaging federal policies that have hurt local farms and businesses, reduced food and health benefits and generally driven up the cost of living. With less revenue to work with and rising needs, we need to ensure that state support goes where and when it's most needed, and that it's easier to access by Vermonters, towns and businesses.”
“With property taxes through the roof, we have to pursue a more sustainable trajectory for funding our schools. I support expanding quality educational opportunities around the state, adopting more predictable and transparent funding, and addressing our demographic realities by consolidating where possible.”
“We're awaiting a legislative report on how a foundation formula could be adapted to work best for student success in Vermont. With that guidance, I could support having the state determine the per-student funding amount that local, likely larger, school districts would then build a budget around and vote on.”
Candice White
Candice White (Democratic) of Waitsfield is an incumbent Vermont Representative representing the Washington-2 district in the 2025-2026 General Assembly, and works as strategic communications consultant; current board member of Lake George Association.
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What is one part of Vermont’s economy or cost of living that needs greater attention from elected officials?: “I think elected officials are well aware of the affordability challenges Vermonters are facing. Continuing policy changes that incentivize more housing are needed, as we know that expansion of housing supply directly drives down the cost of living.”
“Yes, the state needs to decide what we can afford, and dole out grants to schools based on student count and student needs. I expect the CESAs to identify oppportunities for improvement and efficiency in the delivery of special education, teacher training, and other high-cost areas. Additionally, there is room for some school merger statewide, and those opportunities must be seized.”
“Act 73 required the Agency of Education and the Board of Education to set consistent, statewide graduation requirements. I'd like to see a statewide focus on the absolute basics--reading, writing, and math.”