Rutland, VT Local 2323 members played a key role in securing the re-election of Mayor Michael Doenges in his recent election win on March 4.
“One of the big reasons we chose to support him over the challenger was he is pro-bargaining, and he’s supportive of the collective bargaining process. His administration’s stance on safety was another critical factor, as he took immediate action to resolve equipment safety concerns for our members,” said Local 2323 President Kyle Robillard.
Local 2323’s involvement came at a critical time. For years, public employees in Rutland had been restricted from political endorsements due to a city charter provision.
Professional Firefighters of Vermont President Christopher Dube pointed out the importance of the Local’s political involvement, since a provision in the city charter forbade them from partaking in any political activity – even while off duty.
“The city’s attorney looked into this and determined it was unconstitutional,” Dube said. “This sparked the Local to get involved in the Mayoral race, supporting Doenges.”
Robillard and his team strategically supported Doenges’ re-election by forging coalitions with local unions, including public works and police. The Local hosted a joint press conference that attracted local and national media attention, elevating Local 2323’s visibility. Robillard also participated in campaign events and “coffee hours” with the mayor, solidifying their endorsement. In collaboration with Dube and 3rd District Vice President Jay Colbert, a supportive “Letter to the Editor” was submitted to the Rutland Herald, garnering positive feedback.
“We had people come up to me and say, ‘We voted for the fire fighters by voting for him,’” said Robillard.
Only a week before the election, Robillard says members successfully secured a contract that included wage increases – a result many attributed to the positive relationship the union had built with Doenges.
We had people come up to me and say, ‘We voted for the fire fighters by voting for him.’
local 2323 president kyle robillard
“We got it done in six meetings, and we were able to come to an agreement on terms. We settled one of the largest pay raises in our union’s history without making any monetary concessions,” said Robillard.
In the days leading up to the election, Local 2323 also made use of social media to mobilize support. They collaborated with the IAFF communications team and strategic campaigners to design targeted social media ads promoting their endorsement.
Colbert commended the collective effort, saying, “The success of Local 2323 in its first foray into local politics is an outstanding example of the power of IAFF political action.” He went on to say, “I want to congratulate Robillard, Dube, and the IAFF Communications and Strategic Campaigns efforts, led by Strategic Campaign Lead Marc Sanders, for a job well done.”
The success of Local 2323 in its first foray into local politics is an outstanding example of the power of IAFF political action. I want to congratulate Robillard, Dube, and the IAFF Communications and Strategic Campaigns efforts, led by Strategic Campaign Lead Marc Sanders, for a job well done.
3rd District Vice President Jay Colbert
This election was not only about supporting a pro-labor candidate but also rejecting a challenger with a history of anti-labor rhetoric, reaffirming the Local’s commitment to workers’ rights.
“This was a major step for the Local getting actively involved in supporting a political candidate. Now that they have seen the power that they carry, I am sure more victories will be secured in the future,” said Dube.
