Representative Zon Eastes

Zon Eastes is a Democratic state representative from Windham-1 district in Vermont, representing the towns of Guilford and Vernon. Born in Kansas and raised in a large lower-middle-class, multi-generational family, he relocated to Vermont in 1982 and settled in Guilford in 1985.

A classically trained cellist and conductor, Eastes brings a unique background in the arts to his legislative role. Currently, he serves as music director of Juno Orchestra, a professional chamber orchestra based in Brattleboro, and teaches cello at the Brattleboro Music Center.

Education

Eastes holds degrees in music history and performance from the University of New Mexico and State University of New York at Stony Brook.

Political Experience

Eastes was elected to the Vermont House of Representatives in 2024, winning 57% of the vote against one opponent. Prior to his legislative service, he accumulated more than three decades of organizational management, community organizing, and public advocacy experience.

His public service includes:

• Five years on the Guilford Select Board, serving as chair for three years
• Ten years as Justice of the Peace
• Six years as Director of Outreach and Advancement at the Vermont Arts Council, where he led the establishment of the Vermont Creative Network
• Leadership roles in arts organizations in Brattleboro and Bainbridge Island, Washington
• Service on national commissions and networks, including Americans for the Arts and the National Alliance of State Arts Agencies
• Numerous community boards and initiatives throughout his career

His legislative priorities focus on environmental protection and climate resilience, strengthening local economies, ensuring quality public education, supporting affordable housing for working families and aging Vermonters, and preserving community character while preparing for future needs.