Monique Priestley

Monique Priestley is a Democratic politician currently serving as a member of the Vermont House of Representatives, representing the Orange-2 District. Elected in 2022, she has been active in legislative matters and community initiatives. In addition to her role in the state legislature, Priestley is the executive director and founder of a non-profit community workspace, The Space On Main, which she established in 2017. Her professional background includes significant experience in digital media and community engagement, as well as a focus on addressing contemporary challenges such as economic recovery and civic engagement.

Early life and career

Monique Priestley was born on March 12, 1986, in Piermont, New Hampshire. During her teenage years, she relocated to Bradford, Vermont, where she began to establish her roots in the local community. Priestley pursued her education at Northern Vermont University in Lyndon, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Digital Media and an Associate of Science degree in Graphic Design. Her academic journey continued at the University of Washington, where she obtained a Master of Communication in Digital Media. This educational background has equipped her with skills that are applicable in both her legislative work and her leadership role in community initiatives.

Before entering the Vermont legislature, Priestley held a significant position as the Vermont COVID Business Recovery Project Manager for the Center for Women & Enterprise from 2020 to 2022. In this role, she was involved in efforts to support businesses during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Her work focused on assisting women entrepreneurs and small business owners in navigating the economic impacts of the pandemic, which further solidified her commitment to community service and economic development.

Priestley's professional experiences have not only shaped her understanding of the needs of her constituents but have also informed her approach to policy-making within the legislature. Her background in digital media and communication has been particularly relevant in an increasingly digital world, where effective communication and outreach are essential for civic engagement and community involvement.

Legislative service

Monique Priestley was elected to the Vermont House of Representatives in 2022, representing the Orange-2 District. Since taking office, she has been involved in various legislative activities and initiatives aimed at addressing the needs and concerns of her constituents. As a member of the Democratic Party, Priestley has aligned herself with the party's values and priorities, focusing on issues that resonate with the community she serves.

In addition to her legislative duties, Priestley has been recognized for her commitment to civic engagement and democratic processes. She was selected for the Future Caucus Innovation Fellowship as part of the 2024 Strengthening Democracy cohort, which highlights her dedication to improving civic engagement among young state lawmakers. This fellowship provides a platform for emerging leaders to collaborate on innovative solutions to enhance democratic participation and representation.

Priestley also serves as Co-Chair of the National Task Force on State AI Policy, an initiative convened through the Future Caucus. In this role, she engages with other policymakers and experts to explore the implications of artificial intelligence on state governance and public policy. This involvement reflects her interest in contemporary issues that intersect with technology and governance, as well as her commitment to ensuring that state policies are informed by the latest advancements in technology.

In October 2025, Priestley announced her intention to run for the Orange County seat in the Vermont Senate in 2026, following the resignation of Senator Larry Hart. This decision marks a significant step in her political career, as she seeks to expand her influence and continue advocating for her constituents at a higher level of government.

Policy focus and district

As a legislator representing the Orange-2 District, Monique Priestley has prioritized a range of policy issues that are critical to her constituents. Her campaign and legislative focus include housing, climate resilience, affordability, economic fairness, and government transparency. These issues are particularly relevant in the context of Vermont's unique challenges and opportunities, as the state navigates economic changes and environmental concerns.

Housing affordability is a pressing issue in many communities, and Priestley has expressed a commitment to addressing this challenge through policy initiatives that promote accessible and affordable housing options. Climate resilience is another key area of focus, as Vermont faces the impacts of climate change and seeks to implement strategies that protect its natural resources and communities.

Economic fairness is a central theme in Priestley's legislative agenda, reflecting her background in supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs. She aims to create policies that foster economic opportunities for all residents, ensuring that economic growth benefits a diverse range of individuals and communities.

Priestley's emphasis on government transparency underscores her belief in the importance of accountability and open governance. By advocating for policies that promote transparency, she seeks to build trust between the government and the public, encouraging greater civic engagement and participation in the democratic process.

In summary, Monique Priestley is a dedicated public servant whose career has been shaped by her commitment to community engagement and policy advocacy. Through her work in the Vermont House of Representatives and her leadership in various initiatives, she continues to address the needs of her constituents while preparing for future challenges in her political career.