
Community Leaders Supporting Thomas

"Thomas cares deeply about our community and the people who live here. He understands that our challenges are complex and interconnected and that the solutions will take a lot of listening, to all voices, to all ideas. He’s focused on results that really work — for Vermont and for Vermonters. I trust him to be a thoughtful, engaged and hard-working representative for our district in the State House. He’s earned my respect and my vote.”
Kathleen James
Bennington - 4
State Representative

"Thomas West is the type of leader I want representing me and my family at the State House. A family man with integrity and genuine concern for the wellbeing of his district and constituents. "
Kimberly Ziselman
Senior Advisor
Outright International

"Thomas West understands the needs of all Vermonters. He knows that affordable housing is connected to everything—to retaining the workers and families that live here, job growth, and attracting people who want to live and raise families in Vermont. Thomas is deeply engaged in our community, and I look forward to working with him in the State House to support our towns of Arlington, Manchester, Sandgate, and Sunderland, and all Vermonters."
Rob Hunter
Bennington - 4
State Representative

"Thomas West is a candidate that gives me hope. As a leader from a newer generation than mine, Thomas will find solutions to the problems that face our communities."
Mike Nawrath
Town Moderator '01-'26
State Representative '75-'80

“As Thomas’s husband, I’ve had a front-row seat to the values that guide his life: service, integrity, and an unwavering belief that every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. But beyond our personal relationship, I’ve watched him dedicate himself to our community, our family, and causes larger than himself. Vermont needs leaders who listen first, work hard, and put people above politics. That’s exactly who Thomas is, and why I’m proud to support his candidacy.”
Jonathan West
Member
Manchester Selectboard
Why Neighbors Are Supporting Thomas
"
Inspired by Thomas’s story as a veteran, a dad, and his work to help prevent substance use disorder in Southern Vermont, I believe he’s dedicated to making our state the best place to raise a family. Thomas is determined to help find affordable housing solutions and listen to the needs of folks who are often unheard. Having been an intelligence specialist in the army, he has the acuity and discipline to make a difference. We’re lucky to have Thomas and his precious family in our community. I’m excited to see where his talents take us!
Erin Reilly
Manchester

"
Thomas is an honest, kind, intelligent, family man raising 4 children in our town that he loves and cares deeply about. He has good ideas for growth and services and I trust his judgement.
Wendy Galbraith
Manchester

"
I’ve known Thomas to be a very engaged, responsive, and outspoken community thought leader for years and am excited for him to take this next step and become our state representative.
Tim Rhys
Manchester

"
Thomas is smart, articulate, and has a strong commitment to those of us who live in Vermont. He understands the difficult challenges we are facing today in housing, education, and healthcare, as well as the particular concerns and needs of a small rural state. I came to know Tom while serving with him on Manchester’s Planning Commission; he is thoughtful, a good listener, and a problem solver. We badly need a new generation of young leaders who can build community to help resolve the many but connected issues we are grappling with now. I believe Thomas will be one of those leaders. Therefore, I strongly endorse his candidacy for the Bennington 4 House seat, and urge all voters who care about the future of our State and communities to vote for him.
Leslie Burg
Manchester

"
I first met Thomas West in 2025 when he joined the Southwest Tech School Board. During my time at Southwest Tech, I had the opportunity to work alongside him and was consistently impressed by his willingness to listen, learn, and advocate for the people he serves. As a parent and community leader, Thomas brings a thoughtful and practical perspective to the issues facing our region. With important decisions ahead in Montpelier, I believe he has the judgment, integrity, and commitment needed to represent every community in the district. As an Independent and Arlington resident, I have confidence in his ability to consider differing viewpoints and make informed decisions that reflect the needs and values of local families and communities.
Ali Zaiac
Arlington

"
He represents a refreshing energy and values we need right now.
Cathy Hill
Manchester

"
I have seen firsthand how much Thomas West cares about our community and all the people who live here. He will be a truthful and honest voice for us.
Danni Moran
Sunderland

"
We need a man like Thomas who will work hard for our community. Thomas & his husband Jonathan are raising a beautiful family together and he understands the struggles we face on a daily basis.
Linda Cassella
Sunderland

"
Any Vermonter with current or future children and grandchildren will find in Thomas West the legislative partner we need to grow our kids. No issue is more important or more urgent.
Julie Mackaman
Pownal

"
I believe in his values for our community and State. He's been both affable and reachable, taking time to view my concerns and reply.
Dawn Murray
Manchester

"
Thomas West is dedicated to making Vermont a beautiful, happy and rewarding place to live for all of us. He is a man of strength, and genuine optimism who is skilled at bringing people together to solve complex issues. He has poured himself into serving our community and helping others. Thomas is someone who shows us a better way . He is a true leader and he will do an extraordinary job in Montpelier.
Joe Egan
Dorset

"
Thomas cares deeply for the well-being of not only his family but his neighbors and community. He understands the struggles many are going through. He wil work hard to represent us all. Thomas will get my vote. I hope yours too!
Joanne & Neal O'Connor
Manchester

"
I am proud to support Thomas West for State Representative. He is deeply engaged in our community and brings a genuine passion to everything he does. His commitment to preserving Vermont's quality of life while keeping it affordable. Thomas listens, shows up, and works hard to make a difference in our community.
George Araskiewicz
Manchester

Organization Endorsements
Proud to have the support of organizations that share our commitment to Vermont families, service, and community.

VPIRG
VPIRG Votes’ mission is to support and elect public interest champions who will promote and protect the health of Vermont’s people, environment, and locally-based economy.

VoteVets
VoteVets is proud to support veterans like Thomas who are stepping up to continue their service beyond the uniform. At a time when our communities and our democracy face real challenges, veterans bring proven leadership, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the Constitution and the country.
Why These Endorsements Matter

Trusted Voices
These organizations represent experience, credibility, and impact.

Stronger Together
Partnerships that amplify our shared values and goals.

Accountability
Endorsers help hold leaders accountable to our communities.
Proudly Supported By Neighbors Across Our Communities and Beyond
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