Republican Gov. Phil Scott has defeated Democratic challenger Amanda Janoo to win a sixth term as governor of Vermont, according to projections from the Associated Press. Scott's victory extends his tenure as the state's chief executive, one of the most unusual Republican success stories in New England politics.

Scott, first elected in 2016, has built a political coalition that has allowed him to repeatedly win statewide elections in a state that consistently votes Democratic in presidential contests. Before becoming governor, he served as lieutenant governor and represented Washington County in the Vermont Senate. A businessman and former professional race car driver, Scott has frequently emphasized fiscal restraint, economic development, affordability, and a more moderate approach to governing.

His reelection campaign focused on Vermont's economic challenges, including the high cost of housing, taxes, workforce shortages and the state's business climate. Scott has also faced disagreements with the Democratic-controlled legislature over spending levels, tax policy, and education costs. Although he has frequently clashed with lawmakers from his own state, he has maintained support from voters who view him as an independent-minded Republican willing to work across party lines.

Janoo, a first-time political candidate and Democratic nominee, campaigned on an economic agenda centered on affordability, housing, public services and improving the state's quality of life. She previously served as an economics and policy leader with the Wellbeing Economy Alliance and worked as an adviser to governments in Scotland, Wales, Finland and New Zealand. Her campaign argued that Vermont needed a different economic direction and greater attention to the pressures facing residents and working families.

The contest drew particular attention because of Scott's unusual political standing. While Vermont has become one of the most reliably Democratic states in the country in federal elections, Scott has repeatedly won gubernatorial races by attracting support from independents and some Democratic voters. His ability to separate his state-level political appeal from the national Republican Party has been a defining feature of his time in office.

The final University of New Hampshire Survey Center poll conducted October 27–31 among 1,231 respondents, showed Janoo leading Scott 51% to 43% among likely voters, with independent Brian Judd receiving 4%. Despite that result, 62% of likely voters surveyed believed Scott would ultimately win. The poll illustrated the unusual nature of the race, with Janoo leading in stated support while many voters still expected the incumbent to prevail.

Scott's victory gives him another four years in office beginning in January 2027. If he completes the term, he will become the longest-serving governor in Vermont history, surpassing former Gov. Howard Dean's record of five full terms. His reelection also reinforces his standing as a Republican who has repeatedly won statewide in a state that otherwise leans toward Democrats.