Lawmakers selected a new leader for the Vermont National Guard on Thursday, choosing Col. Greg Knight to replace Maj. Gen. Steven Cray as adjutant general of the state militia.
Knight, who had the endorsement of former Adjutant General Martha Rainville, defeated three other candidates to win the two-year post. Knight won over Retired Brig. Gen. David Baczewski, who served in the Vermont Air National Guard, including as wing commander; retired Lt. David Graham; and retired Air Force Col. and F-35 critic Rosanne Greco.
Knight won on the first ballot with 95 votes. A majority of the 180 lawmakers was required. The vote was done by paper ballot. Baczewski received 58 votes, Greco 21 and Graham received 2.
The selection came at a time when the Guard has faced increased scrutiny after allegations of improper activity, including sexual harassment and assault, and retaliation against a whistleblower. All four candidates have promised reforms.
The pick also occurred as lawmakers and the governor have questioned the adjutant general selection process. Vermont is the only state where lawmakers elect the adjutant general. In every other state, the governor makes the appointment.
Both Gov. Phil Scott and lawmakers want to change the process to include a candidate review process similar to judicial nominees instead of having the candidates try to sell themselves in meetings with lawmakers. Scott wants the governor to select the adjutant general; lawmakers are divided on whether their body should retain a role in the selection process.
For the past month, the candidates have been a constant presence in the Statehouse, often in uniform, speaking to lawmakers. They outlined their qualifications and promised reforms in a meeting with lawmakers.
The Vermont National Guard is comprised of 3,500 active and part-time soldiers in the Air National Guard and the Army National Guard.
Rep. Laura Sibilia highlighted Knight’s 30 years of military experience and said he would protect women in the Guard.
“He is committed to leveling the playing field for all who serve,” Sibilia said, adding Knight would “rebuild” the Guard at a time that the organization needed “a culture change.” Rep. Ruth Hardy said Knight would “assure women in the Guard are heard and safe and have an equal opportunity to lead.”
Sen. Debbie Ingram, D-Chittenden, nominated Greco, who the senator said was running to help the “problematic treatment of women” in the military. Ingram said Greco had “high standards and impeccable values” who would reform the culture of the Vermont National Guard. Greco, who also served as chair of the South Burlington City Council, has been a vocal opponent of the basing of the F-35 fighter jets in Vermont.
Prior to the vote, Rep. Cynthia Browning, D-Arlington, said she was undecided between Knight and Baczewski and complained lawmakers were not qualified to make the selection.
On Wednesday, Sen. Tim Ashe, D/P-Chittenden, the body’s leader, said the selection process was flawed and too much of a popularity contest.
Lawmakers are expected to consider changing the selection process later in the session.