Dear Source,
The most recent action by the Majority in the 24th Legislature to address changes in the manner we elect our senators is disturbing. (See Local News story Majority Makes All Senate Seats At-Large.) Once again our elected leaders have failed to take the input of the voting public before introducing and passing legislation as it pertain to election reform. Don’t get me wrong, I am all for changing the matter in which we elect our representatives but I object to having anything shoved down my throat. Just what public input went into this bill? What happened to what the voters wanted in the last election? Are these members of the Majority our elected representatives? Or are they "The Warlord(s)" fighting to maintain their influence and power over the masses?
I can’t help but believe that, looking at the amount of years many of our elected legislators have served, none of them accepts responsibilities for the failure of the state of education in the U.S. Virgin Islands. We all know that, if the system had been improved, they would have flooded the airwaves claiming that it was their efforts and contributions that improved the system.
The U.S. Virgin Islands is made up of all races, colors, and cultures. Is it right to assume that all residents have the same needs and that the priorities are all the same? What a foolish thought! We will only move forward if our legislature reflects the diverse people that make up these Islands. Better representation comes only with districts, one senator accountable to the voters of his or her district so that there is no more passing the buck.
The current move by the legislature is a slap in the face to the voters and to the Board of Elections. Why are our senators bent on confusing the voters? What has not been discussed is that if our senators are to be elected "At Large" just how much will they raise their salaries? Food for thought! The Majority in the 24th Legislature has only continued to waste the time and the money of the public. Those "elected" representatives who continue to act on legislation without public input or debate need to be removed.
I hope the Governor will do the right thing and continue to look out for the best interest of the public, and line item veto this "election reform".
Vinnie Mohanani
St. Thomas
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