Virgin Islands Pollster John Boyd recently released his latest poll of registered voters in both the District of St. Croix and the District of St. Thomas-St. John of issues of importance in the General Election to be held November 7th. The top four issues cited by voters were public safety, education, economic development and roads. Crime has long been a concern to the Territory’s voters with many pundits cited its impact on the Virgin Islands leading industry, tourism, as well as upon quality of life for residents.
In the wake of recent convictions and multiple trial courtroom drama from the Global Services scandal involving Turnbull Administration stalwart Ohanio Harris and former St. Croix Senator Alicia “Chucky” Hansen – government corruption was the number four concern in both island districts. Graft and corruption were potentially indicated this past week in light of the resignation of Governor Turnbull’s Deputy Chief of Staff Alric Simmons.
Jobs, tourism, health care and youth programs were also listed in the top ten concerns of Virgin Islands voters. Health care was the focus of a gubernatorial candidate debate earlier this week at Schneider Regional Medical Care Center on St. Thomas.