October 27, 2026To the Community,
As a retired small business owner, high-level employee of several small businesses, and as a former state representative, I have a unique perspective on the impact socialism is having in this year’s election.
Specifically, Gov. Phil Scott’s opponent – and many candidates for the House and Senate either directly or indirectly – have said to the Democratic Socialists of America: “I've admired the role DSA has played in organizing for the DSA’s goals, and I would be honored to work alongside you”
It’s no surprise to me that people in favor of socialism are disproportionately seeking election to public office. The closer one is to a public institution, like the Legislature or state government, under socialism, the brighter their economic prospects. At least, that seems to be the case in socialist regimes past and present like the Soviet Union, Cuba, North Korea and Venezuela.
This should be more alarming, however, to Vermonters. Under socialism, there is no more private ownership of property or of businesses. Which really begs the question: how does this work?
When I owned my own business. I was proud to pay my bills through hard work that also benefited my customers. This exchange – except for the taxes I pay – happens through agreements outside of any government entity.
So if my business is taken away from me, or becomes an instrument of the state, what do I do? Will I be working according to a schedule worked out by someone in state government? How will I be paid? And I think the really critical question here is, who is better off under this arrangement?
Without small businesses creating jobs, paying taxes, and delivering services to local customers, how do we function?
I understand people are frustrated with affordability – especially high property taxes and health care costs, a housing crisis, possible proposed exorbitant taxes on home heat and gasoline, and countless other impediments to more prosperity. I am frustrated too. I hope we can please think about how we can really address the root of these issues in the context of this election. Electing socialist candidates, in my estimation, makes these challenges far worse.
Please support the moderates on the ballot who will work shoulder-to-shoulder with Gov. Scott on real progress to lower your tax burdens, lower your health care costs, and keep more money in your pockets for the things that really matter.
Steve McLeod
Bolton
Steve McLeod served in the Vermont House of Representatives, 1973-76, representing Barre City as a Democrat. He’s now a retired lawyer and lives in Bolton.