Dr. Arlene L. Smith-Thompson Launches Independent At-Large
Dr. Arlene L. Smith-Thompson has officially launched her independent Territorial At-Large campaign, declaring that party politics no longer serves the Virgin Islands. In her launch address, the former senior public administrator outlined key priorities including solving cold-case murders, enforcing fiscal accountability, and fixing the territory's persistent water crisis.
Smith-Thompson has officially launched her bid as an Independent Territorial At-Large candidate ahead of the next general election, declaring that the territory can no longer afford to play politics with its future. Formally delivering her launch address on Monday, September 14, she framed her non-aligned candidacy as a decisive break from traditional party machinery in favour of a people-first agenda.
In her address, Smith-Thompson explained that having previously engaged in party politics, she concluded the system is no longer serving residents as it should. She positioned her independent candidacy as an opportunity to listen without political interference, speak boldly on pressing issues, and work collaboratively with anyone dedicated to advancing the territory.
Describing herself as a bridge from the politics of the past toward a brighter future, she emphasised her commitment to representing residents across Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, and all sister islands. Smith-Thompson spotlighted three urgent priorities demanding decisive government action: violent crime, fiscal mismanagement, and the territory's ongoing water crisis.
On crime, she highlighted the backlog of more than 30 unsolved homicides dating back over two decades, calling it unacceptable for a population of roughly 35,000. Addressing public spending, she criticised wasteful investments and called for greater accountability so public funds can properly support roads, infrastructure, environmental protection, and social services.
She also condemned the state of the public water system, declaring that no resident should turn on a tap only to hope water flows. Drawing on her professional career, Smith-Thompson pointed to her extensive administrative and educational background. She previously served as Acting Permanent Secretary in both the Deputy Governor's Office and the Ministry of Communications and Works, as well as Vice-President for Academic Affairs at H.
She noted that this experience provides her with firsthand understanding of public service bottlenecks and the unnecessary bureaucracy that hinders effective service delivery. This campaign marks Smith-Thompson's second run for elected office, following her 2019 general election bid under the Virgin Islands Party in the Third District, where she secured 289 votes in a third-place finish behind Julian Fraser.
She also had a brief association with the All 13 movement before choosing an independent territory-wide path. Her declaration adds to an expanding roster of independent contenders, including At-Large hopefuls Cindy Rosan and Sandra Phillip-Hodge, alongside Fifth District candidate Lesmore Smith.
These independent bids come amid a broadening political landscape featuring the governing Virgin Islands Party, the National Democratic Party, the People's Leadership Movement, the All 13 movement, and the Virgin Islands Innovative Association ahead of elections constitutionally due by mid-July 2027.
Primary source: Guavaberry