Esther Charlestin

Esther Charlestin (born 1990) is an American educator and businesswoman, serving as the chair of the Vermont Commission on Women. A first-generation Haitian American, Charlestin was the Democratic nominee in the 2024 Vermont gubernatorial election.

She was supported in her gubernatorial bid by Vermont political figures including Howard Dean, Becca Balint, David Zuckerman, and Emma Mulvaney-Stanak, before losing to incumbent Phil Scott in the largest Republican landslide in the state since 1946.

Prior to running for Governor of Vermont, Charlestin was elected to the Middlebury Select Board in 2021 and 2022. Earlier, in 2019, she worked as a residence director at Middlebury College, and during the 2022–2023 school year, she served as Dean of Culture and Climate at Middlebury Union Middle School. She ultimately resigned from the latter position, citing experiences of racism.

In 2023, Charlestin founded Conversation Compass, a consultancy that helps individuals and organizations navigate conversations around culture, diversity, equity, and inclusion.

In 2026, Charlestin ran for the Democratic nomination for Lieutenant Governor of Vermont, but lost the nomination to former lieutenant governor Molly Gray.

Political positions

Education Charlestin advocates for a sustainable education system that eases the education tax burden for low and middle-income families.

Flood relief Charlestin's policy platform for flood relief focused on promoting sustainable land use and managing stormwater run off. Candidate Votes % Esther Charlestin 24,007 62.3 Peter Duval 9,377 24.3 Other/Write-in votes 5,159 13.4