American novelist Mark Twain is often quoted as saying “The rumors of my death are greatly exaggerated,” and now that can also be said by former V.I. Delegate to Congress Ron de Lugo.
A budding rumor about de Lugo’s death was quashed Thursday by his successor and fellow Democrat, Donna Christensen. De Lugo, 87, left public service in 1995 when he retired from the U.S. House of Representatives after two decades as the V.I.’s representative.
“I called his wife, he’s fine,” said Christensen.
Unconfirmed word of the former delegate’s death was sent to a member of the press early Thursday. Posts about de Lugo’s passing could also be seen on social media. But those who know de Lugo well say it isn’t so.
De Lugo began his career as a radio host on WSTA-AM in the 1950s. He became known as one of the leading figures in revitalizing Carnival on St. Thomas. In 1955 he ran for public office and became the youngest senator in the Second Legislature of the Virgin Islands.
While serving in the senate, de Lugo pursued representation for the territory in Congress. Once that milestone was achieved, he ran for office as the V.I.’s first delegate and won.
De Lugo served in every Congressional session from the 93rd to the 103rd. On the national stage, de Lugo charmed Republican and Democratic colleagues, persuading them to do what he could not on behalf of the people of the Virgin Islands — vote on issues on the floor of the House of Representatives.
Along with Guam Delegate to Congress Antonio Won Pat, de Lugo took the oath to represent the U.S. territory he called home in 1973. At almost the same time, the House approved a measure granting voting privileges on Congressional committees to territorial delegates.
In his second term in office, de Lugo founded the House Territorial Caucus. Throughout his career in the nation’s capital, he built a reputation as a good-natured team player, willing to win others over to his cause.
In 2003, de Lugo was honored in the Virgin Islands when the federal courthouse in Charlotte Amalie was named after him
De Lugo did not serve from January 1979 to January of 1981. He ran against Gov. Juan Luis and lost. Dr. Melvin Evans, former Governor of the USVI held that post as Delegate to Congress for one term. De Lugo defeated Governor Evans in 1980 election.
So article should indicated he did not serve in the 96th Congress.
Always a good day when I read that my dad is still alive. *smile* Thank you for this article that lightened the hearts of many of his old friends and supporters who were worried.