Molly Gray Defeats John Rodgers for Vermont Lieutenant Governor

Democrat Molly Gray defeated incumbent Republican John Rodgers in the Vermont lieutenant governor race on November 4, 2026. Gray, who previously held the office from 2021 to 2023, won approximately 62% of the vote, leading Rodgers to concede the race around 9:30 p.m.

Gray campaigned on reducing healthcare costs, protecting fundamental rights, and serving as a bulwark against the Trump administration. She highlighted her leadership of the Vermont Afghan Alliance as evidence of her experience. In contrast, Rodgers attempted to position himself as a moderate bipartisan dealmaker with a focus on rural affordability, receiving an endorsement from Governor Phil Scott.

The campaign grew contentious as Rodgers launched personal attacks regarding investigations into Gray's family farm. Gray responded by criticizing Rodgers' own regulatory fines and legal disputes. The result represents a rare defeat for a Vermont incumbent lieutenant governor, which analysts attribute to a shift in electorate sentiment since the 2024 election.