Daniel T. Riley, a 43-year-old business consultant from Bennington, is crisscrossing the state in hopes of winning support to become the next chairman of the Vermont Republican Party.

Rob Roper, the current chairman, has announced his intention to step down in November when his term is up.

Riley is no stranger to Republican politics. In the announcement of his candidacy, he says he has been Bennington County Republican chairman. He also coordinated John McCain's presidential campaign in the first congressional district of New York in 2000 and was a delegate to the Republican National Convention that year.

Riley said Republicans offer common sense solutions to the challenges the state faces. He says Republican candidates need to "make sure the people hear our solutions loud and clear."

If he became chairman, Riley said his strategy would be to build a strong grassroots campaigning effort -- something he says Democrats have done well in recent years.

"I look forward to rolling up my sleeves and spending time campaigning."

Republicans will choose a new chairman on Nov. 14.

-- Nancy Remsen

Labels: Dan Riley, Ron Roper, Vermont Republican Party