VERNON — Now that Gov. Peter Shumlin officially supports nonviolent protest against Vermont Yankee's continued operation, the protesters are acting on his behalf.
Meanwhile, his administration had agreed that Vermont Yankee can continue operating while the courts are deciding Vermont's appeal in Entergy's lawsuit and the Vermont Public Service Board is deciding the certificates of public good.
Shumlin and his administration now are in conflict of interest between due process in due time and direct action now. The three members of the Vermont Public Service Board now face a supreme test of their quasi-judicial independence versus Shumlin's will.
Now, the fundamental question is whether the rule of law can continue operating in the state of Vermont.