I think the main reason that Vermont is less conservative (that is, it has become less conservative) is because of people that have moved here to Vermont - especially during the back to land movement in the 1970s and 1980s. Talking with native Vermonters, they are very conservative compared to people who have moved here. I feel that people who have moved here have a big influence, and have even influenced native Vermonters. It's just my opinion, though.