The Democratic Party of the Virgin Islands has appointed Carol Burke to be its new state chair (2024-2026). This announcement is the party’s effort to maintain internal stability, secure its structure and strengthen its viability.
In the past, the election of the Democratic Party’s offices has been included in the primary elections; however, these elections were derailed when the supervisor of elections notified them of the Elections System’s decision.
On June 11, 20024, Elections Supervisor Caroline Fawkes wrote, “The supervisor will not be conducting party offices during the Primary Election scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 3, 2024.”
This decision was made as the party was simultaneously preparing for the primary elections of its senatorial candidates and other board seats, and its plans, preparations and participation in the 2024 Democratic Presidential Convention in August. As such, its executive committee postponed the party office elections, a move that was carefully considered in the party’s best interest.
Burke, a seasoned veteran with over 30 years of service to the Democratic Party, is ready to take on the challenges and celebrate the victories that lie ahead. Her extensive experience, including roles such as president of Young Democrats, majority leader of the 22nd Legislature, 18 years as National Committee Woman, two terms as vice chair and conventions caucus coordinator, and most recently, delegation chair and whip chair for the 2024 Convention Nomination of Vice President Kamala Harris, makes her a formidable leader.
In pivoting to the top seat, Burke said, “I am overjoyed and moved by this opportunity. I am humbled. I made a firm decision to pursue my goal as state chair. I believe in the tenets of the Democratic Party and understand that they fundamentally apply to the greater good. As a Virgin Islander, I fully appreciate that politics is a means of achieving progress for our people and that conditions can serve as an equalizer.
“Our best possibility is our preparation, and I envision a Democratic agenda aligned with aspirations and promises. I pay homage to all Democrats who have served as state chairs before me, with extraordinary and distinct recognition to Marylyn Stapleton and the late Tito Morales. I also thank our former chairman, Stedmann Hodge, for his leadership. I am further encouraged by the support from members locally and nationally, and I look forward to sealing our party’s wins in November,” said Burke.
