“There’s a lot of support out there,” Rodgers said. “I’m definitely thinking about it.”
The right-leaning Democrat from Glover could capitalize on a wave of anger directed at Republican Gov. Phil Scott, who is poised to sign a package of gun control bills Wednesday. Previously a stalwart opponent of such measures, Scott reversed his stance in February after learning of an alleged school shooting plot in Fair Haven.
At a Statehouse press conference held with other lawmakers Tuesday, Rodgers reiterated his opposition to S.55, a bill that would mandate universal background checks, raise the purchasing age for guns from 18 to 21, limit high-capacity magazines and ban bump stocks.
Rodgers, 52, told Seven Days that he would likely run as a Democrat but hasn’t ruled out running as a Republican or independent. He acknowledged that winning the Democratic primary could be difficult: “Rural Democrats love me. The more urban left-leaning Democrats don’t love me so much.”
Three Democrats — Christine Hallquist, James Ehlers and Ethan Sonneborn — have already declared their candidacies for the November election. Keith Stern, another vocal gun proponent, has registered to run as a Republican.
Ultimately, Rodgers said, “I could be comfortable with any letter beside my name.”
WPTZ-TV first reported Rodgers’ potential run.
This isn’t the first time the senator has publicly floated the idea of a bid for higher office. He ultimately decided against a run for lieutenant governor in 2016.
Rodgers said concerns about his livelihood are the only thing holding him back. He runs a small construction company and plans to launch a hemp business with his son this summer. Balancing those obligations with a statewide campaign “seems like a pretty heavy lift,” he said.
Scott’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Related Stories
Got something to say?
Send a letter to the editor and we'll publish your feedback in print!
I would not support John Rodgers for Governor, or for anything, ever.
Has my vote
Run, John, Run! That way we can get rid of you as a useless Senator.
This is the type of leader Vermont needs at this time. John you have got my support.
After reading his thoughts on common sense gun laws, I would have a hard time voting for him, no matter which party he runs under.
I cant imagine Rodgers as the person running our state government. The school boy running would most likely be more effective. There isnt a lot of doubt that the NRA lunatics will support him but hopefully the rest of the electorate will have more common sense than to shudder in fear at a few, common sense gun control laws.
Someone is given a small decision, like a haircut. They decide that a bowl cut and a mustache is a good choice. Do we, the people, really want to give them bigger decisions to make, like running the government? Does that really seem like a good idea?
My vote will be going to Keith Stern who is for the 2nd Amendment and for the Vermont Constitution gun rights. Stern for Governor.