Scott Doesn’t Expect Party Differences To Be An Issue

(Host) Lieutenant Governor-elect Phil Scott says he doesn't expect party differences to be an issue between himself and Governor-elect Peter Shumlin.  Scott is a Republican and Shumlin is a Democrat, creating a party split between Vermont's top statewide officers for the first time since the mid-nineties.

Speaking today on Vermont Edition, Scott says Shumlin has already reached out to him.

(Scott) "He would like me to be a part of the process as well, that he doesn't want to shove me aside, and that I have a voice as well."

(Host) Scott and Shumlin both served in the Senate together for several years, and Scott says they have a good relationship with mutual respect.

The lieutenant governor's primary role is to preside over the State Senate. Several of the most experienced senators are not coming back in January.  Scott says there will be a learning curve for the new members and leaders of the Senate:

(Scott) "I have no question we will be able to get the results we need, but it is going to be a challenge especially in the beginning.

(Host) The new Legislature convenes on January 5th.