Common Questions About Working Families
Who is the Working Families Party?
We're a new party getting started in Vermont to stand up for every day Vermonters. We're community activists, environmentalists, union members, farmers and small business owners. We're parents, retirees and students. We're focusing on the issues that matter to all of us, like good jobs, affordable healthcare, quality schools and a sustainable environment. (More.)
Why now?
For many people in Vermont, times are tougher than they've ever been. Good jobs are still disappearing and too many of us are seeing our standards of living decline. We think it's time for a new party to return the focus in Vermont to the kitchen-table issues that matter to all of us. (More.)
How can the WFP win?
Minor parties have a tough road in American politics. But we have a strategy to put our issues first. There are Democrats, Republicans, Progressive and independents alike who share our values -- and any candidate who is committed to putting average Vermonters first can get our endorsement, and have Working Families printed on the ballot next to their name too, no matter their party. We don't have to field our own candidate in every election: by endorsing the ones who will stand with us, we can move our issues forward. Vermonters are famous for our independent streak. Voting the Working Families endorsed candidates is how we vote our values. (More.)
Are there Working Families Parties in other states?
Yes. The first Working Families Party was launched in New York in 1998. Since then, WFPs have also formed in other states, like Connecticut, Delaware, South Carolina and Oregon. We take inspiration from those organizations' dedication and success on important issues like living wages, affordable healthcare, green jobs, paid sick days, quality schools and more. But all decisions and endorsements by the Vermont WFP will be made locally by our members and leaders here in Vermont.