Renner largely avoided criticizing Zuckerman, instead pointing to the representation he would bring to the role as a black gay man. Renner also promised not to "switch parties or add other party affiliations after the primary," which VTDigger interpreted as a dig against Zuckerman's membership in the Vermont Progressive Party. Renner described himself as "progressive, with a small 'p'." Zuckerman ran on his experience, pointing to the many years he served in the state legislature before his election as lieutenant governor.[8]
Zuckerman outraised Renner significantly, taking in over $111,000 compared to roughly $43,000 for Renner. VTDigger pointed out that more than a third of Renner's fundraising came from wealthy Republicans; Renner claimed that these donations were unsolicited and came as a surprise to him.[8]
Rodgers campaigned as a moderate, saying he does not plan to vote for Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump. Thayer positioned himself as the more conservative candidate, calling himself "the only Republican in this race."[11]