Esther Charlestin
American educator and political candidate (born 1990)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Esther Charlestin (born 1990)[1] is an American educator and businesswoman,[2] serving as the chair of the Vermont Commission on Women.[3][4] A first-generation Haitian American,[5] Charlestin was the Democratic nominee in the 2024 Vermont gubernatorial election.[6]
Sacred Heart University (MA, MEd)
Esther Charlestin | |
|---|---|
Charlestin in 2024 | |
| Personal details | |
| Born | June 12, 1990 |
| Party | Democratic |
| Education | Western Connecticut State University (BA) Sacred Heart University (MA, MEd) |
She was supported in her gubernatorial bid by Vermont political figures including Howard Dean, Becca Balint, David Zuckerman, and Emma Mulvaney-Stanak,[7][8] before losing to incumbent Phil Scott in the largest Republican landslide in the state since 1946.
Prior to running for Governor of Vermont, Charlestin was elected to the Middlebury Select Board in 2021 and 2022.[9] Earlier, in 2019, she worked as a residence director at Middlebury College,[10] and during the 2022–2023 school year, she served as Dean of Culture and Climate at Middlebury Union Middle School.[11] She ultimately resigned from the latter position, citing experiences of racism.[12]
In 2023, Charlestin founded Conversation Compass, a consultancy that helps individuals and organizations navigate conversations around culture, diversity, equity, and inclusion.[13]
Political positions
Education
Charlestin advocates for a sustainable education system that eases the education tax burden for low and middle-income families.[8]
Housing crisis
Charlestin stated affordable housing as a top priority and focused on working with local municipalities to allow for new construction.[14]
Flood relief
Charlestin's policy platform for flood relief focused on promoting sustainable land use and managing stormwater run off.[14]
Electoral history
| Party | Candidate | Votes | % | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Republican | Phil Scott (incumbent) | 266,428 | 73.60 | ||
| Democratic/Progressive | Esther Charlestin | 79,217 | 21.88 | ||
| Independent | Kevin Hoyt | 9,362 | 2.59 | ||
| Green Mountain Peace and Justice | June Goodband | 4,511 | 1.25 | ||
| Independent | Poa Mutino | 2,414 | 0.67 | ||
| Write-in | 81 | 0.02 | |||
| Total votes | 362,013 | 100.00 | |||
| Republican hold | |||||