Scudder Parker is the Real Deal. If you could put the Vermont seal of approval on any person, Scudder Parker would be that person. Scudder Parker is a man of faith, and has faith in Vermont and its people. He understands community, opportunity, and the importance of every person. He has always chosen to stand up for the disadvantaged in our society. He has a reputation for applying Vermont values to thorny issues. He has always challenged Vermont to be better, better at securing its energy future, better at creating jobs, better at securing the rights of all its citizens.

But most importantly, when given a chance, Scudder Parker has delivered.

Vermont needs a leader with vision, a person who can deliver, and a man who believes in what Vermont can be – we need look no further than Scudder Parker. He has lived Vermont, he understands Vermont, he is Vermont.

I first knew Scudder when he was a pastor serving rural congregations in the Northeast Kingdom. His deep affection for his parishioners and his passion for justice and equal opportunity for all people were clear then, and have guided him throughout his career.

I got to know Scudder much better when we served in the Vermont State Senate in the 1980s, where he presided with great distinction for four years as chair of the Senate Finance Committee.

Scudder brings a remarkable openness and intelligence to all that he does. He listens and works tirelessly to craft creative and effective answers.

Partisan righteousness is not high on Scudder's list of credentials for leadership.

Rather, he brings thoughtfulness and patience (signs of real strength). Lastly, his combination of openness, commitment to justice, creativity and dedication to making life better for all Vermonters is just what we need.