The attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, prompted Lt. Gov. Tregenza Roach to call for unity and action against political violence during the weekly media briefing on Monday.
Roach began with a solemn address on the incident, sparking concerns about the rampant accessibility of deadly weapons. He offered condolences to the victims’ families and commended the heroic actions of those who prevented further bloodshed.
“This incident starkly highlights the perilous consequences of incendiary political rhetoric and the incitement of violence. Our political climate, both nationally and locally, has become dangerously divisive,” Roach asserted.
He urged the community to recognize their shared humanity, culture, and values, emphasizing the importance of unity despite differing opinions. “We are stronger when we collaborate to improve our islands and our country,” he emphasized.
Meanwhile, Gov. Albert Bryan is on the Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas’ inaugural voyage from Orlando to Nassau and back. The trip, intended for meetings and conferences, features discussions with partners like St. Maarten’s Minister of Tourism, Grisha Heyliger-Marten, and representatives from the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association. These talks will focus on enhancing local infrastructure to support larger vessels and boosting economic benefits for local businesses, Roach explained.
“My meetings with Minister Heyliger-Marten and the leaders of the FCCA are crucial in forging stronger partnerships and securing new opportunities for our territory,” Bryan stated in a recent press release.
Though the ship will not dock in the territory during its maiden voyage, Roach said he believes it will become a regular stop in the future. He also mentioned that Tourism Commissioner Joseph Boschulte, along with a contingent of department officials, is accompanying the governor.
In another significant update, Roach addressed his recent appeal for the V.I. government to donate $200,000 to St. Vincent, the Grenadines, and outlying islands in response to Hurricane Beryl. Despite mixed reactions, particularly in light of the government’s ongoing financial constraints, Roach stood by the decision, citing past aid from neighboring islands after hurricanes Irma and Maria and the territory’s tradition of assisting others in the Caribbean, including offering vaccines during COVID-19.
Bryan is expected to return on July 21. Until then, Roach will serve as acting governor, with Senate President Novelle Francis stepping in as acting lieutenant governor.
