Phil Scott Maintains Lead in Tight Vermont Gubernatorial Race
Governor Phil Scott leads Democratic challenger Amanda Janoo in a new poll, though his lead has narrowed ahead of the November 3 election.
A Vermont Public 2026 Poll shows Republican Governor Phil Scott leading Democratic challenger Amanda Janoo in the race for a sixth term. Scott holds 42% of the general population and 44% of likely voters, while Janoo holds 32% and 34% respectively. This represents the tightest race of Scott's career, coinciding with his approval rating falling to 45%, particularly among Democratic voters.
Scott is campaigning on an affordability agenda and has criticized the Democratic-controlled Legislature for its ideology. His platform includes pushes for education reform and a veto of a bill that would restrict data center construction. In response, Janoo is proposing government-funded primary health care and tax increases for second-home owners and high earners, arguing that rural communities often feel unsupported and unheard.
Campaign spokesperson Emma Shouldice defended the governor's strategy, stating the campaign will continue to run its race as Scott has in the past. The candidates are scheduled to face each other in a gubernatorial debate on October 21 before the November 3 election.
