Transgender Gubernatorial Candidate Christine Hallquist Says She Has Received Death Threats

Christine Hallquist, Democratic candidate in Vermont’s gubernatorial race and the first transgender woman to run for governor from a major party, said on Monday that she has received death threats. Hallquist told NBC10 Boston that she’s also been subject to online trolling and that the Vermont Democratic Party receives “four or five harassing calls a day.” She said she believes many of the callers are from outside Vermont and said the calls started after she gained national attention for winning the Democratic primary. “I know there are many people across the country like me that want to pull us together,” she said. “And I certainly want to pull Vermont together.” Her opponent, Gov. Phil Scott, came out in defense of Hallquist and said he “wouldn’t tolerate” the harassment. “I think it’s important that we treat each other with respect and civility,” he said. “It’s something I’ve practiced throughout my life.” The Vermont Democratic Party said it has reported the calls to law enforcement and has “given advice” on campaign security plans in the wake of the threats.