St. Thomas Voter Apathy Linked to Politicians’ Lack of Connection, Say Residents

ST. THOMAS — The difference was stark. Between early voting and ballots cast on Election Day, over half of St. Croix's registered voters participated in the democratic process. In contrast, just under 23% of those registered to vote on St. Thomas cast their ballots - nearly four out of every five St. Thomians who could vote, did not.  Additionally, St. Thomas did not field a full slate of candidates for the Sixth Constitutional Convention, with only four named candidates running for seven seats. The boards of Election and Education are similarly undermanned.  When Consortium journalists asked several St. Thomians what they believe is behind the lack of voter participation, many spoke of youth apathy, a lack of faith in the system, and national trends. However, one factor was consistent among those who responded to our question – the lack of engagement by local politicians during campaign season. "I don't think that people who are looking for office are connected to the voters anymor...