Former Bernie Sanders Chief of Staff Jeff Weaver Endorses Dunne for Governor

WHITE RIVER JUNCTION – Jeff Weaver, former Chief of Staff in Senator Bernie Sanders’ House and Senate offices and Sanders’ former campaign manager, endorsed Matt Dunne for Governor today.

Weaver released the following statement endorsing Dunne:

“For some 20 years I stood beside Bernie Sanders, including as his House and Senate Chief of Staff and as his 2006 Campaign Manager. With the support of people like you, we brought Bernie’s powerful and effective voice to the U.S. Senate, and it has made a huge difference for people in Vermont and across the nation.

“Now I’m supporting Matt Dunne’s run for Vermont Governor.

“Matt Dunne has the energy and ideas to move Vermont into a new era. He’s not afraid to take on those who want government to work for the people at the top instead of working families, family farmers, the small business community, seniors and women. Matt has the executive leadership necessary to take charge on day one to help revitalize Vermont’s economy and bring jobs back to our state.

“But being right on the issues, or having the right management style isn’t enough. The question is: Who has the real world experience needed to help our state take advantage of the opportunities of the 21st century?

“It’s Matt Dunne.

“If Bernie Sanders taught me one thing in my 20 years by his side, it’s this: Change will only come when Vermonters standing together elect candidates with vision, candidates committed to the well-being of ordinary Vermonters, candidates who are willing to truly fight on our behalf. I believe Matt Dunne will bring those qualities to Vermont as Governor.”

Dunne continues to attract endorsements and support from people with broad political backgrounds.

“Bernie Sanders has been a long-time advocate for working people in Vermont and I think Jeff Weaver’s endorsement shows Matt Dunne can be a champion for working Vermonters in Montpelier,” Kevin O’Holleran, campaign manager for the Matt Dunne campaign, said.

“Matt is capable of building coalitions in order to get things done. The high-profile endorsements he has received over the past several weeks – Bill McKibben, Hirem Allen and now Jeff Weaver – show Matt can bring all different types of people together to win this November and lead Vermont into a new era as Governor,” O’Holleran said.

Dunne thanked Weaver for his support and his service to the state of Vermont.

“Jeff worked tirelessly for many years as a public servant and I thank him for his all he has done for Vermont with Senator Sanders. His endorsement gives this campaign another boost of momentum and I think him for his strong support,” Dunne said.