State Treasurer Election Results and Analysis
The election for State Treasurer saw a significant transition in leadership following the retirement of incumbent Beth Pearce. While Pearce was eligible for a sixth term, she chose to step down due to a cancer diagnosis, opening the door for new leadership to manage the state's finances.
Key Facts
- Mike Pieciak (Democratic) won the election with 65.59% of the popular vote.
- H. Brooke Paige (Republican) received 34.29% of the vote.
- Pieciak secured victories in every county except for Essex.
- The Democratic nominee was endorsed by former Governor Peter Shumlin and former Attorney General William Sorrell.
Election Results Overview
The race resulted in a decisive victory for the Democratic nominee, Mike Pieciak. Pieciak demonstrated strong statewide appeal, particularly in urban centers. He surpassed the 80% margin in 12 municipalities, including the state's most populous city, Burlington, as well as Winooski and the capital, Montpelier.
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In contrast, H. Brooke Paige found his strongest support in the northern regions of the state. His most successful performance occurred in the town of Victory, where he nearly reached a 70% vote share.
| Candidate | Party | Popular Vote | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mike Pieciak | Democratic | 182,571 | 65.59% |
| H. Brooke Paige | Republican | 95,440 | 34.29% |
The Primary Process
Democratic Primary
Mike Pieciak, the former commissioner of the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation, emerged as the Democratic nominee. He received critical support from the outgoing treasurer, Beth Pearce, as well as other high-ranking statewide officials including former Governor Peter Shumlin and former Attorney General William Sorrell.
Republican Primary
The Republican path to nomination was more volatile. H. Brooke Paige, a newsstand owner and perennial candidate, won the primary. Following his win, Paige initially indicated he would drop out to allow the Vermont Republican Party to select a different nominee. However, because the party's executive committee could not find a replacement in time, Paige remained the nominee.
Other potential Republican candidates included financial analyst Kevin Divney, who withdrew before the primary, and Wendy Wilton, a former Rutland City Treasurer and 2012 nominee, who declined to run.
Progressive Primary
The Progressive party also held a primary, which was won by Don Schramm, a cofounder of Burlington Co-housing. However, Schramm withdrew from the race after winning the primary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the State Treasurer election?
Mike Pieciak of the Democratic Party won the election with 65.59% of the popular vote.
Why did the incumbent treasurer not run for re-election?
Incumbent Beth Pearce chose to retire due to a diagnosis of cancer, despite being eligible for a sixth term.
Which areas showed the strongest support for Mike Pieciak?
Pieciak performed exceptionally well in 12 municipalities where he exceeded 80% of the vote, including Burlington, Winooski, and Montpelier.
What happened with the Republican nomination?
H. Brooke Paige won the primary and initially intended to drop out. He continued as the nominee after the Republican executive committee failed to find a replacement candidate in time.
Did any other parties run candidates?
Yes, the Progressive party held a primary won by Don Schramm, but he withdrew from the race after his primary victory.