Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. met with President Donald Trump and fellow governors at the White House to discuss key policy priorities, including economic development, regulatory reform, education funding, and public safety. The meeting provided an opportunity to address the Virgin Islands’ specific challenges and explore collaborative efforts between state and federal governments.
A major topic of discussion was the restart of the oil refinery, a project Bryan described as a significant economic opportunity for the territory. He stressed the need for streamlined federal regulations to facilitate large-scale projects, ensuring they move forward efficiently while creating jobs and driving economic growth, according to the press release.
Bryan and other governors also raised concerns about the federal regulatory process, arguing that excessive bureaucracy delays essential infrastructure and economic initiatives. They advocated for deregulating certain federal projects to reduce red tape and accelerate progress, the press release stated.
On education, Bryan pushed for block grants to the Education Department, arguing that the current federal funding system imposes unnecessary administrative burdens. He emphasized that granting funds in block form would allow the Virgin Islands to allocate resources more effectively, addressing local educational needs without excessive federal oversight, the release stated.
Public safety was another key issue. Bryan highlighted the importance of cooperation between federal and local law enforcement to remove individuals in the territory illegally and crack down on crime. He also called for stronger federal action to prevent the influx of drugs, particularly fentanyl, into the islands and to ensure that those who threaten public safety face serious consequences, it said.
“Today’s meeting was a productive opportunity to ensure that the Virgin Islands’ needs are understood at the highest levels of government,” Bryan said. “By working together with the federal government, we can drive economic growth, improve public safety, and ensure that our residents receive the resources they deserve.”
Bryan remains committed to strengthening federal partnerships to advance the interests of the Virgin Islands. He plans to continue working with the administration and Congress to advocate for policies that support the territory’s economic and social well-being, according to the press release.
