Ariel BollesAriel Bolles

Community over complacency. Collaboration over capitulation.

We live in a time of deep contradictions. The national and international news makes Ariel feel hopeless and helpless. And, she feels more connected than ever to her friends and neighbors. She sees her tax dollars funding endless wars, enriching wealthy tax evaders, and imprisoning innocent people looking for a better life in our country. And she’s inspired by people in Vermont and elsewhere speaking out and fighting back, on the streets and through legal action, policy and mutual aid.

Ariel refuses to be complacent. Here in Vermont, at a state and local level — whether in Town Meetings, Town Committee Zoom calls, PTO meetings, School Board meetings or the State House — she sees Democracy that works, where every citizen and every vote can have an impact. I see neighbors who are motivated and want to connect and be heard. This is a moment that requires moral clarity, vision, and urgency. Because I’m running for my kids, and everyone else’s kids. To make Vermont better than ever.