Plaskett Outclasses Opponents at WTJX Congressional Forum

Incumbent Stacey Plaskett’s grasp of legislative matters and extensive record set her apart during WTJX’s candidate forum. In contrast, Ida Smith and Ronald Picard offered vague proposals, leaving voters questioning their readiness for the role

On Monday evening, public broadcaster WTJX hosted the territory's congressional hopefuls at a forum for candidates seeking election as the delegate to the House of Representatives. At the table was Ida Smith, whose independent candidacy is currently being challenged in court by the Supervisor of Elections. Joining her was Republican candidate Ronald Pickard, and incumbent Stacy Plaskett, the Democratic candidate running for re-election.

Forum host Gwen-Marie Moolenaar, president of the League of Women Voters of the Virgin Islands, began the questioning by asking the candidates about what in their background has prepared them for the position. Ms. Smith emphasized the over 20 years she has spent conducting research into various issues affecting the territory, including trying to ensure that the National Park Service “does not encroach on our boundaries.” According to Ms. Smith, “they're claiming to own our properties here in these islands, and the treaty, as well as the federal laws, protect us against that.”