Home Star is a common sense idea that would create jobs and provide a boost to local economies, while helping families afford their energy bills. By encouraging homeowners to invest in energy efficiency retrofits, Home Star would create 170,000 manufacturing and construction jobs that could not be outsourced to China.

Welch was reelected in 2008 with no major-party opposition becoming the first Democrat to be reelected to the House from Vermont in 158 years. Despite Welch’s Progressive positions on social issues and his low ratings from traditionally conservative interest groups Welch has adopted a conservative position on gun rights. In July 2009 Welch supported legislation to help disabled veterans.

He is a member of the Democratic Party. He previously served in the Vermont Senate where he was the Minority Leader and President pro tempore.