The back and forth continues between Progressive gubernatorial candidate Anthony Pollina and Democratic leadership. Here's Pollina's recent letter responding to a letter from Democratic Party Chairman Ian Carleton on the D's state committee decision to not to meet with Pollina -- at least not yet.

Dear Ian,

Thanks for the summary of the recent meeting of the Democratic State Committee. What I understand from you and others is there was a healthy and lengthy discussion of my request to meet with the committee and questions about how we may or may not work together to defeat Jim Douglas.

It seems the questions are much the same as those raised and answered at meetings I have had with Democrats and others around the state.

For example, local campaigns. The question as I understand it, is whether -- once supported by the Democratic Party -- I would support Progressive challengers over progressive-minded Democrats in races where both were involved. The short answer is no. More importantly, I hope the State Committee recognizes these circumstances are unlikely in the first place. For years, Progressive and Democrats have done a good job of dealing with local races (generally, I believe, without the involvement of gubernatorial candidates) and those involved are much better prepared than I to go over that history. And, as you may know, recently elected Progressives have generally had the support of local Democrats, leading me to conclude that local folks have done a good job of working these things out.

We are separate parties, but I believe our shared interests are being so badly thwarted by the current governor that cooperation is needed. I have told you and others that a strong coalition effort in the governor's race would build stronger cooperation at the local level. While I do not see my role as micro-managing local campaigns, I would certainly work to encourage this cooperation. And I cannot help but note that even at this early date there is a Democratic challenger to Progressive incumbents in Burlington. I look forward to supporting the incumbents in that race -- just so we are clear.

It is interesting to me that while the State Committee chose not to invite me at this time, these questions continue to be fodder through websites and other media. I fully appreciate that this discussion needs to take place, but I do not believe the best way to move forward is through the media, online or otherwise.

I continue to think that questions like those raised at your meeting are best resolved with a face-to-face sit down. As such, I continue to look forward to meeting with the State Committee or any of its members who are interested.

Sincerely,
Anthony Pollina

-- Nancy Remsen