I've got to disagree - there is next to zero chance that Pat Leahy could lose a Democratic primary here in Vermont. He has established incredible personal connections and popularity in every corner of the state, and especially among Democratic activists and core Democratic voters. Patrick remains the only Democratic Senator ever elected in Vermont, and he holds a place of deep affection in the hearts of countless Vermont Democrats.

While many of us would like to see him more out front on issues like single-payer, that wouldn't be anything close to enough to outweigh things like his overall positive Senate record, the value of his seniority for the state, his leadership on the Judiciary Committee, his record in getting things done for Vermont (such as the recent supplemental approval of payments to dairy farmers that Leahy, Sanders and Welch worked together to make happen), his overwhelming fundraising abilities, his on-the ground campaign machine honed in 6 successful Senate elections, his reputation for integrity and his personal connection with Vermonters.

Unless there were to be a scandal with Patrick (there won't be), he is untouchable.

I'm sure that Dr. Freilich is running for his heart-felt beliefs about policy, not for some calculation about a future statewide election. From the little I know of him, he seems to be an intelligent, thoughtful, and sincere man, the type of person we need in our politics and government. However, it is difficult to see how he would be able to put together a solid campaign and fundraising (unless he is self-funding, which I'm led to believe he isn't).

But there are limited opportunities for someone like Freilich in Vermont politics -- with two extremely popular and progressive US Senators in Leahy and Sanders, and with similarly progressive Peter Welch having a solid hold on our only Congressional seat, there simply isn't an opening on the federal level. And even if he wanted to run for the state legislature, all of the current officials representing the town of Wilmington are solidly progressive Democrats and don't appear to be going anywhere.

But even while I don't think he has any chance of defeating Leahy, it would be great and very consistent with Vermont political tradition for him to use the opportunity to affect the public debate and advance discussion through his candidacy.