Phil Scott reappoints Zoie Saunders as education secretary, six months after the Senate refused to confirm her

seven months later Vermont Senate refuses to confirm Gov. Phil Scott is giving Zoie Saunders another shot as secretary of education.

Scott announced Tuesday that he had reappointed Saunders to the role, effective that day. He had been serving in the Senate on a temporary basis since April 30. voted 19-9 against confirmation – and soon Scott appointed him to temporary duty.

It was not immediately clear Tuesday what recourse the Senate might have to oppose his reappointment, if it chooses to do so. The Legislative Assembly adjourned for a two-year term, and newly elected lawmakers are not scheduled to take office until January.

In a press release announcing Saunders’ reappointment, Scott’s office offered no explanation for the Senate’s earlier rejection. Instead, he focused on her work to temporarily run the Education Agency for the past semester.

Scott said in a written statement that he believed Saunders was “the right person at the right time” to lead the agency “since day one.”

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“During her six months at the Education Agency, Zoie has demonstrated a strong commitment to working with teachers, students, parents, administrators and community members so that together we can build a stronger education system,” Scott said. “I believe those who meet Zoie see how valuable her experience and expertise are.”

This story will be updated.