We’re excited 19 Emerge Vermont alumnae are running for office in the General Election! Throughout the month, we’ll be highlighting these awesome women who’ve stepped up to serve their communities.
Senator Debbie Ingram
Debbie currently represents Chittenden County in the Senate and she’s an alumnae of our 2016 training program.
What office are you running for and why?
I’m running for re-election to the State Senate from Chittenden County because I want to continue to improve the lives of my 
constituents and all Vermonters. In my first term, I have exercised my heart for justice by championing legislation to address systemic racism; give Vermont immigrants greater legal support; address pay inequality for women, LGBTQ persons, and people of color; and provide assistance to victims of sexual abuse and domestic violence. I also joined with the Democratic majority to pass landmark gun safety bills, authorize the importation of prescription drugs, advance universal primary care, protect net neutrality, and increase consumer protections. If voters give me the chance, I plan to work with my colleagues to again pass bills that the Governor unfortunately vetoed, including raising the minimum wage and initiating paid family leave, and tackle other issues like cleaning up our waterways and expanding prevention of opiate addiction. There’s more to do to keep Vermont moving forward!
What role has Emerge played in your candidacy?
Emerge gave me a lot of nuts-and-bolts guidance in important elements like setting up a “kitchen cabinet,” raising money, and messaging, among many others. My Emerge sisters have also been incredibly helpful in volunteering for my campaign, walking in parades with me, arranging parties, and making phone calls. And the camaraderie with other bright, accomplished, and motivated women has been invaluable. Now I feel like there’s a whole group of people who know me well and understand what I’m going through!
What advice would you give another woman thinking about running for office?
Do it! We need more women’s voices at every level of government – put yourself out there and let your voice be heard.
Emerge has one goal: To increase the number of Democratic women in office who are reflective of the incredible diversity of the Democratic party by recruiting, training and providing a powerful network.