Testimonials
“I am confident that Ela will bring integrity, curiosity, and empathy to the role of a State Representative for East Montpelier and Middlesex. We are fortunate to have this smart, hardworking individual put her many talents and knowledge to work on our behalf.”
— State Representative Kimberly Jessup, Middlesex
“Please join me in electing Ela to the VT House of Representatives. I have known Ela all her life - she is smart, experienced, and dedicated to supporting Vermonters. She has all the qualities necessary, and then some, to do an outstanding job representing our two towns.”
— Former State Representative Tony Klein, East Montpelier
“With her years of service and understanding of how our State government works, Ela will hit the ground running as a member of the VT House. I have seen the impact of her work on individuals and entrepreneurs - she is articulate and committed, and will help make government work for the people in our district.”
— State Senator Anthony Pollina, Middlesex
“Ela has worked for years to make life better for all Vermonters, understanding that local agriculture, small businesses, affordable housing and building a strong, sustainable economy are vital to creating a future that offers hope to us all, especially our children.
We are impressed by Ela's experience and commitment. We know she will represent our community well.”
— Susan Sussman & former State Senator Scudder Parker, Middlesex
“As a peer in the economic development space, I've been fortunate to observe Ela Chapin at work for years. Ela brings rare intelligence and unfaltering commitment to every role she undertakes. I am delighted for Middlesex and East Montpelier to have the opportunity to benefit from Ela's leadership and look forward to celebrating the victories Ela achieves on behalf of all Vermonters when she reaches the House!”
— Kate Whelley McCabe, Co-Owner, Vermont Evaporator Company
“I believe the best representatives care about their constituents, are accessible, and listen intently. And I have found that the best policy makers in our legislature are careful critical thinkers who work with humility and dedication. Ela possesses all of these qualities and would be both a great representative and a great policy maker.
If East Montpelier and Middlesex voters elect her to the legislature, not only do I believe they would be well served -- they would also be doing a great service to the legislature and state of Vermont as a whole.”
— Jared Duval, former Economic Development Director, Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development
“Ela will provide a strong, informed, collaborative and compassionate representation of Middlesex and East Montpelier in the Statehouse. Her demonstrated commitment to our communities, deep experience working with leaders across the state, and focus on communication and inclusion will support important decisions that we need to make today while planning for a strong future. Join me in supporting Ela for State Rep!”
— Stacy Brown, Middlesex
“Ela is terrific. She’s a thoughtful leader who cares deeply about healthy communities and an inclusive Vermont that works for everyone. She has the collaborative leadership skills to be an effective representative starting on day one.”
— Katherine Sims, State Representative for Orleans-Caledonia
“Ela Chapin will be an excellent addition to the Vermont State legislature as representative for East Montpelier and Middlesex. She brings all the skills necessary to be an effective leader- ability to listen, work with differing viewpoints, and find solutions to complex problems. I had the pleasure of working with Ela through the Vermont Farm and Forest Viability Program, a very effective program that keeps thriving farms the heartbeat of Vermont. As long term executive director, Ela grew the Viability Program from its infancy to its current successful and productive renown.
Ela Chapin has shown her commitment to the future of Vermont. My vote goes to Ela, I hope yours will also.”
— Richard Wiswall, Cate Farm, East Montpelier
The next two years will be so important for the future of our communities with both challenges and opportunities. We face unprecedented inequality leaving some very well off but most struggling every day. Ela’s experience in economic development will be an asset to both East Montpelier and Middlesex as we continue to move forward from the COVID 19 pandemic and create an economy that works for more of us.
Her empathy and commitment to fairness make her a sincere and powerful advocate for those who have been historically marginalized in Vermont. I have seen this commitment personally during our work together at Community Capital of VT where we work with marginalized small business owners every day.
As the Director of Community Connections at Washington Central SU for almost 5 years, I worked extensively in both Rumney Memorial and East Montpelier Elementary School. I met many of the families in both communities and learned of the challenges they face. Ela’s experiences as a parent in Central Vermont gives her the perspective to be a fierce and effective advocate for our youth.
I ask you to join me in supporting Ela Chapin as the Representative for the Washington 5 district!
