Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. congratulated President-elect Donald Trump on his election victory in a press release Tuesday while reflecting on the potential impact national leadership changes could have on the Virgin Islands. This comes as Republicans secured major wins, taking control of both the Senate and House of Representatives with 53 Senate seats and a majority of over 225 seats in the House.
Emphasizing the importance of democratic processes, Bryan acknowledged how elections bring public concerns to the forefront and called for unity as the territory navigates this pivotal time.
“Elections are critical litmus tests that bring public concerns to the forefront of our national conversation,” Bryan said in a statement. “They reflect the hopes, fears, and aspirations of the people, and today we recognize those chosen to lead. I congratulate President Trump and all the newly elected leaders across the country.”
Bryan underscored the influence national decisions have on the Virgin Islands, emphasizing that collaboration between federal and local leadership is more crucial than ever. “From economic policy to disaster recovery, the decisions made at the federal level shape our local reality. I am hopeful that we can work together to develop a clear strategy that addresses the unique needs of our community while advancing our shared goals as a nation.”
In a phone interview Tuesday, Bryan pointed to his past experience working with the Trump administration, expressing optimism for a smooth transition. He acknowledged the substantial federal disaster funding—over $8 billion—that the Virgin Islands has received over the past five years and stressed that while challenges could arise, disaster funding likely would not be at risk. “With recent storms like those impacting Florida, disaster funding will remain a priority, even if other areas of support shift,” Bryan said.
Noting that he is a Democratic governor, Bryan said the Republican sweep in the House and Senate could offer potential advantages, including a smoother legislative process that may help advance key initiatives without delays. This political shift may streamline legislative action on important issues for the Virgin Islands, such as rum cover-over revenue, which generates significant funding for the territory.
Bryan emphasized the importance of reinforcing relationships with national allies and maintaining bipartisan cooperation. “We’re working to ensure that our lobbyists remain strong and that our allies on both sides of the aisle stay loyal,” Bryan said. He highlighted the strategic partnership with Delegate Stacey Plaskett, who represents the territory in the House of Representatives. “We split the work—she focuses on the House while I take the Senate. Keeping those lines of communication open is vital.”
Bryan also noted outreach efforts to influential figures within the Republican sphere who have connections to the territory to strengthen local-national ties. Additionally, he expressed new hope for collaboration with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan to explore possibilities for revitalizing the refinery, which he views as essential for the local economy.
However, Bryan acknowledged potential concerns with energy funding, given Trump’s support for traditional oil and gas industries. While this could impact the availability of certain energy grants, Bryan remained confident in the progress made toward renewable energy initiatives to stabilize the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority. “We’ve already secured funding, and we will push for more to continue building our base on green energy,” Bryan noted.
On broader national security topics, Bryan discussed border management, expressing hope for practical solutions for maintaining secure borders while focusing on balanced, non-divisive approaches to immigration, particularly as the territory looks to expand its labor force.
Despite the uncertainties, Bryan maintained a hopeful outlook. “As governor, it’s my job to look for the silver lining and navigate the changing tides to best serve the Virgin Islands. We will keep reaching out, advocating, and finding opportunities to advance our territory’s interests.”
