Civility in Government

For more than 35 years, former Governor “Jim” Douglas served the people of Vermont, and as a Republican in a blue state, he clearly understands what it takes to get legislators to work together in an era characterized by political extremism and lack of compromise. He also chaired the National Governors Association during the contentious debate on the Affordable Care Act, a measure that has come to epitomize partisanship in the nation’s capital.

Governor Douglas, who is now an executive-in-residence at Middlebury College, sought the office of governor in 2002 and was re-elected with a majority in 2004, 2006 and 2008.  During his tenure, he focused on strengthening the state’s economy, reducing the cost of living in Vermont and protecting the state’s natural environment.  He also advanced groundbreaking health reforms that have made Vermont a model among the states in health care.

His political career began after he graduated from Middlebury College in 1972 and was elected to the Vermont House of Representatives, which was followed by terms in the legislature, secretary of state in 1980 -  a post he would hold for 12 years - and state treasurer in 1994, where he served the people of Vermont for eight years.

The Civility in America Series is sponsored by The Dilenschneider Group, the Hearst Media Group in Connecticut and The Ferguson Library.