Julian Willock Announces Run for Third District
Former House Speaker Julian Willock has confirmed he will be a candidate in the next general election and says he will run for the Third District seat, telling ZBVI's Talking Points programme on June 22, 2026 that he expects to be on the 2027 ballot. New reporting by BVI News adds that Willock remains a member of the Virgin Islands Party and intends to seek the party's nomination, while ruling out an independent bid and outlining priorities including infrastructure, housing, jobs and restoration of the Ellis Thomas Downs.
Former House Speaker Julian Willock has confirmed he intends to contest the Third District seat at the next general election, ending months of speculation about his political plans. Willock made the declaration during an appearance on ZBVI 780 AM's Talking Points on June 22, 2026, an interview reported by Virgin Islands News Online.
In the radio interview Willock told listeners he expects to be on the ballot for the 2027 general election, saying the poll must be held by at least June or July 2027 under constitutional and statutory deadlines. He repeated that 'if everything stays on track, I will be on the ballot for the 2027 general elections in the Virgin Islands.' Willock addressed questions about whom he might oppose, stating he would not run against the current Third District representative. 'What I will say, and I've said it a million times, that I will not run against honourable Fraser; however, I am running in this upcoming general election,' he told the programme, according to Virgin Islands News Online.
Honourable Julian Fraser, the sitting Third District representative and Deputy Premier, has not publicly confirmed whether he will seek re-election. BVI News' subsequent reporting added further detail on Willock's plans and priorities. The outlet said Willock confirmed he remains a long-standing member of the Virgin Islands Party and intends to go through the party's Congress process to seek the VIP nomination for District Three.
Asked whether he would run as an independent if he failed to secure the party nomination, Willock rejected that option, saying he is 'not one of those guys who pick up my marbles and run anywhere' and that he is committed to party processes. On policy, BVI News reported that Willock framed his campaign around practical local issues: infrastructure, employment opportunities, housing and the restoration of the Ellis Thomas Downs horse-racing facility. 'One of the vexing things in the district that must come back is the Ellis Thomas Downs,' Willock told BVI News, describing himself as 'a lone voice in the wilderness' calling for its return.
Willock emphasised a focus on making things happen rather than just criticising, noting ongoing road and water infrastructure projects in the district and saying his aim is to deliver further improvements for residents. He appealed directly to voters, asking forgiveness of anyone he may have offended and saying his candidacy comes from a 'pure heart' and a desire to be 'a servant leader.' The BVI News report also noted other prospective candidates, including Aaron Parillon, who has expressed interest in representing the Third District.
Willock previously explored runs for elected office in the 2019 and 2023 general elections. His public service background includes roles as Permanent Secretary, Director of Water and Sewerage, and Speaker of the House of Assembly. Willock's announcement adds an early chapter to what is shaping up to be a closely watched lead-up to the 2027 polls in the Virgin Islands, particularly in District Three.
With the election window approaching, attention will turn to VIP's nomination process, whether Hon. Julian Fraser will stand again, and which candidates secure nominations and support from voters and community leaders.
Primary source: VINO