Bennington, Vermont News
Bennington Area Primary Ballot Candidates Take Shape for August 11
As the deadline for qualifying candidates closed on Thursday, local residents can now see a clearer picture of the primary ballot for state and county offices in Bennington County, scheduled for August 11.According to a report first published by the…
BENNINGTON, Vt. NewsWK —The ballot for Vermont’s August 11, 2026, primary election is officially set, and Bennington area voters will have several critical local races to decide before the general election in November. Following the passage of the spring filing deadlines, the candidate fields outline a busy summer of campaigning across the county.
Crowded Field for State Senate
The most closely watched local race is shaping up in the Bennington State Senate District, where a crowded Democratic field is vying for two available seats. Incumbents Seth Bongartz and Rob Plunkett are both seeking reelection, but they face a competitive primary challenge from fellow Democrats Brian Campion and Amy Moore.
On the Republican side of the aisle, Lawrence “Spike” Whitmire and Josh R. Williams are running unopposed in their primary, positioning themselves for a head-to-head clash with the Democratic nominees in November. Additionally, Rachel Shaw has filed to run for the State Senate seats under the Vermont Progressive Party banner.
Key State Representative Matchups
Voters will also see several important contests for the Vermont House of Representatives as local districts take shape:
- Bennington-1 District: Democratic incumbent Jonathan Cooper is running to retain his seat and will face a general election challenge from Republican candidate Charles Edward Jewett.
- Bennington-4 District (2 Seats): A contested Democratic primary is on the horizon between Rob Hunter and Thomas West. Meanwhile, Republican Al Clayton has filed to run for the district and will await the primary victor in the general election.
- Bennington-Rutland District: The race is set for a general election showdown between Republican incumbent Sandy Pinsonault and Democratic challenger Mike Rice.
Looking Ahead to the General Election
In addition to these pivotal local races, Bennington voters will be weighing in on high-profile statewide contests, including Vermont Treasurer Mike Pieciak’s bid for a third term, the race for Governor, and the state’s U.S. House seat.
Early voting for the primary will begin in late June. Voters are encouraged to check their registration status and find their local polling locations ahead of the August 11 primary. Winners of the primary contests will advance to the general election on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.
