Burlington, Vt. - Vermont State political races are around the corner and yet, they have not showed up much in the media.
Republican State Senator Randy Brock announced he was challenging Democrat incumbent Peter Shumlin last December for the position of Governor. But political science professor, Garrison Nelson says, the reason why we have not heard much about it is because the current governor is likely a shoe-in for a second term.
"Knows where the money is. Knows how to get it," Nelson said of Governor Shumlin.
And that is despite the fact that Shumlin has not even formally announced his re-election.
In contrast, Nelson says Brock is running a slow-moving campaign, partly because he knows he has little chance of victory.
"Sometimes you take one for the team. And this maybe taking one for the team," Nelson said.
But, where the gubernatorial race lacks drama, the match-up for attorney general has plenty. That is because Chittenden County State's Attorney and Democrat T.J. Donovan is taking on incumbent democrat, Bill Sorrell. Both men are popular and very politically connected.
"I think the people who really admire T.J. are kind of not as encouraging as they might have been that he's making this run against a long-term, popular incumbent," Nelson said.
Nelson says he cannot call this race. In fact, he will not say anything with 100 percent certainty.
"Vermont is a State which defies easy categorization and will continue to do so," Nelson said.
Another Republican, Roy Newton, entered the race for Governor in April. And, Rutland treasurer and Republican, Wendy Wilton, announced Thursday that she will run for State treasurer.
More names could show up. The deadline to file for the primary is June 14.
