Esther Charlestin Launches Bid for Vermont Lieutenant Governor

Former Democratic gubernatorial nominee seeks state's second-highest office

Jan. 28, 2026 at 11:39am

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Esther Charlestin, who was the Democratic nominee for Vermont governor in 2024, has launched a campaign for the state's lieutenant governor position. Charlestin is the third Democrat to enter the race, joining Molly Gray and Ryan McLaren. The winner of the Democratic primary will face off against the incumbent Republican lieutenant governor, John Rodgers, in the general election.

Why it matters

Charlestin's candidacy is notable as she was the first Black woman to win a major party nomination for Vermont governor, and only the second Black woman to do so nationally. Her bid for lieutenant governor continues to break new ground for diversity in Vermont politics.

The details

Charlestin, who chairs the Vermont Commission on Women, has said her campaign will focus on improving access to education, lowering the cost of living, and giving all Vermonters a 'seat at the table.' She faces a competitive Democratic primary against Molly Gray, a former lieutenant governor, and Ryan McLaren, a former aide to U.S. Senator Peter Welch.

  • Charlestin launched her campaign for lieutenant governor on January 28, 2026.
  • The Democratic primary election is scheduled for August 2026.

The players

Esther Charlestin

The former Democratic nominee for Vermont governor in 2024, who is now running for lieutenant governor.

Molly Gray

A former lieutenant governor of Vermont who is also running for the position again in 2026.

Ryan McLaren

A former top aide to U.S. Senator Peter Welch who has launched a campaign for Vermont lieutenant governor.

John Rodgers

The current Republican lieutenant governor of Vermont, who has said he plans to run for re-election.

Phil Scott

The Republican governor of Vermont who defeated Charlestin in the 2024 gubernatorial election.

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What they’re saying

“I've spent my entire career bridging the gap between communities. Far too many people are feeling unheard, unseen, and left out by our current leadership, so I'm running to give everyone a seat at the table.”

— Esther Charlestin, Candidate for Vermont Lieutenant Governor

What’s next

The Democratic primary election for Vermont lieutenant governor is scheduled for August 2026. The winner will then face off against the incumbent Republican lieutenant governor, John Rodgers, in the general election.

The takeaway

Esther Charlestin's bid for Vermont lieutenant governor continues to break new ground for diversity in the state's politics, as she seeks to become the first Black woman to hold statewide office. Her campaign promises to give all Vermonters a voice in state government.