In her bi-weekly column, “State of the Territory,” former Sen. Janelle K. Sarauw delves deeper into issues of concern for V.I. residents.
As a Virgin Islander, I am deeply concerned about the erosion of integrity in our political landscape. The recent outcry over one Democrat attacking another serves as a glaring example of the selective outrage that too often characterizes our politics. When those within the political establishment come under fire, there’s a swift rush to condemn such behavior. Yet, when similar attacks are directed elsewhere—particularly at independent candidates—the response is often silence. This inconsistency raises an important question: where is the accountability across the board? Such selective application of morality underscores a broader issue, where principles are too often sidelined in favor of personal alliances.
Smear tactics have unfortunately become a common feature of Virgin Islands politics, setting a dangerous precedent. Personal attacks divert attention from the real issues affecting our territory. Campaigns should focus on quality—on presenting ideas, policies, and solutions for the people. When campaigns devolve into character assassination, they not only undermine the credibility of the candidates but also erode public trust in the political process.
In the last election, the lies about me, for example, weren’t just a personal attack—they were an attack on the kind of discourse our people deserve. Instead of engaging on issues like healthcare, education, and infrastructure, the focus was on tearing me down. This has to change. Our campaigns need to be about substance, not slander.
Campaign Financing and Accountability
Another area that demands attention is campaign financing and how public funds are used. Too often, federal funds are poured into the territory but misused, particularly during election seasons. Instead of addressing critical needs such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare, these funds are redirected for short-term political gain—such as last-minute road-paving projects meant to win votes. Unfortunately, many of these hastily paved roads are now crumbling, symbolic of the short-sighted approach that serves political interests over the public good.
The solution lies in transparency and accountability. We need clear oversight of how public funds are used, ensuring they benefit the entire community, not just certain districts, in the run-up to an election. Our voters deserve more than quick fixes—they deserve long-term solutions that will uplift the territory as a whole.
Voter Education and Engagement: Elevating the Electorate
In the last election, it was disheartening to see how many voters were swayed by instant gratification—handouts and newly paved roads—rather than focusing on long-term solutions. The electorate was distracted by shiny objects, while critical issues like the failing energy system, underfunded schools, and the need for better healthcare were pushed aside.
What we need is stronger voter education. Our people deserve to understand the long-term implications of their vote and how policies—not giveaways—impact their future. Engaging voters through civic education will help create a more informed electorate, one that prioritizes real issues over distractions during campaign season.
Youth Involvement: Building the Next Generation of Leaders
One of the most personal attacks I faced was being dismissed as “a little girl” at 37 years old. Ageism, sexism, and homophobia were weaponized to diminish my candidacy. If we continue to marginalize our youth, we risk alienating the very people who will inherit the consequences of today’s decisions.
Encouraging youth involvement in politics is essential. Young people bring fresh perspectives, energy, and long-term vision to the table. By empowering them to take part in the political process, we ensure a future built on their ideas and leadership. Dismissing or undermining youth voices only weakens our democracy.
Elevating Political Discourse
As we look ahead, it is crucial for all candidates, regardless of party affiliation, to commit to running campaigns based on integrity. We should encourage open debates, engage with voters on substantive issues, and hold ourselves to higher standards of accountability. The future of the Virgin Islands depends on a political culture that values honesty, transparency, and solutions over personal attacks and short-term political gains.
We have the opportunity to reshape our political landscape by insisting on better from our candidates and from ourselves as voters. It is time to elevate our discourse, focus on the real challenges facing our territory, and build a brighter future for all Virgin Islanders.
Editor’s Note: Opinion articles do not represent the views of the Virgin Islands Source newsroom and are the sole expressed opinion of the writer. Submissions can be made to visource@gmail.com.
