Dear Fellow Vermonter:

Winning Vermont’s open Congressional seat is an enormous challenge, but one that I am confident we can accomplish together!

When I look at the world, I see so much to be optimistic about. Great opportunities exist for peace around the world and prosperity here at home. However, there is a tremendous amount of work to be done.

High gas and energy prices are hurting working families. Out-of-control government spending is threatening the security and sustainability of our Social Security and Medicare. We are struggling with an unprecedented conflict in the Middle East.

I believe that if we build on our positive accomplishments while we learn from our mistakes, we will succeed in making a better world for ourselves, our children and our grandchildren. And, I believe that Vermont and Vermonters can and will lead the way.

Here in our home state of Vermont, the first change we need to make is to end the trend of out-of-state special interest groups spending millions of dollars to pick our candidates and decide our elections for us. We need to send a clear message in November: the Vermont way of life is not for sale, and our votes will not be bought!

It is our turn to lead and I believe tremendous opportunities lie ahead.

Join me in this campaign, and help return our nation to effective governing so we all – you, your children and your neighbors – can enjoy a more prosperous life and future.

Thank you very much,

Senator Mark Shepard