Rep. Stevens: Ryan McLaren leads by listening

August 4, 2026

To the Community:

I have watched Ryan McLaren grow up through his work in public service, and I have seen him become the kind of leader who connects with people where they are.

Ryan does not enter a conversation assuming he already has every answer. He listens carefully, asks thoughtful questions, and makes sure the voices of Vermonters shape the work he takes on. That may sound simple, but it is one of the most important qualities we can ask of someone seeking public office.

Over the course of his career, Ryan has worked at the local, state and federal levels of government. Through it all, he has remained grounded in the belief that public service should be about helping people and strengthening communities, not advancing a title or a personal ambition.

Ryan brings purpose to this race. He understands how difficult it has become for many Vermonters to find a home, afford health care, raise children and imagine a secure future here. He also understands that these problems will require hard work, cooperation and a willingness to bring people together around practical solutions.

Ryan’s own experiences have taught him that nobody succeeds entirely on their own. Families depend on strong schools, accessible health care, safe communities and neighbors who show up when help is needed. He knows how much it matters for government to work well when people need it most.

Most importantly, Ryan has hope that we can still build a Vermont where more families can make it work, where our communities are strong and where we continue to show up for one another.

That is the kind of leadership I want to see from our next lieutenant governor. I am proud to support Ryan McLaren in the Democratic primary on August 11, and I hope you’ll join me.

Rep. Tom Stevens

Waterbury