June 29, 2006 – Sen. Adlah "Foncie" Donastorg expressed concerns this week about the dirty politics being played in the Virgin Islands.
"I have once again committed myself and my supporters to running a clean and positive campaign," he said. "But, apparently, there are other parties willing to condone rumor mongering and vandalism."
Donastorg said he was disturbed at the level of negative comments being made and rumors being spread about the various gubernatorial candidates.
"Most of this negativity has not been directed at me, but rather on the candidates running in the primary election," he said. "However, it concerns me that such tactics are being used. While there is no doubt in my mind that I am the most qualified and committed person running for the job of Governor, I have a tremendous respect for all the other candidates. Public service usually comes with great personal sacrifice and the campaign trail is never easy."
Donastorg said that two of his own campaign billboards were damaged beyond repair by vandals on St. John.
"My campaign committee works hard to purchase and put up these signs," he said. "It is very regrettable that some individual thinks it is to their advantage to destroy them."
Donastorg said that he has told his Committee members that they must honor all the candidates and their respective campaign workers.
"At the end of the day we are all Virgin Islanders and we are all in this together," he said.
The senator also confirmed that his running mate would announce their candidacy on July 14 in Frederiksted.
"I pledged that I would give my Lt. Governor equal time and their own forum to announce their candidacy before the people of the Virgin Islands," Donastorg said. "July 14 will be their night!"
Donastorg said that there will be a block party and rally in Frederiksted in support of the team.
"When looking for a Lt. Governor I didn't want a subordinate, but rather a partner," he said. "My Lt. Governor will be taking on an expanded role in our administration in order to fully utilize their expertise and experience. Our team brings a great deal to the table. We are running because we as Virgin Islanders deserve better Government and a better quality of life."
Donastorg concluded by saying that a sense of "true commitment" is what is needed for real progress to take place.
"You can't lead the people if you don't love the people," he said.
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