Bryan Campaign is Fined $2,000 For Hosting Fundraiser With Foreign National, Elections System Says

  • Ernice Gilbert
  • January 16, 2023
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Bryan-Roach 2022 Campaign hosts virtually rally on Sept. 27, 2022.

The Bryan-Roach campaign was fined $2,000 for what Supervisor of Elections Caroline Fawkes says was the campaign's illegal fundraiser with Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, Deputy Supervisor of Elections Terrell Alexandre has confirmed to the Consortium.

The fine's confirmation to the public follows a press release issued by the Election System of the Virgin Islands Sunday evening regarding a campaign disclosure notice, which reminds political campaigns that disclosure reports must be submitted to the Office of the Supervisor of Elections no later than Monday, January 23. Forms can be downloaded at https://www.vivote.gov/candidates/forms.

In the same press release, the Elections System included a statement from Ms. Fawkes warning political candidates against using foreign nationals for campaign fundraising events. "Supervisor Fawkes also informs candidates, political party clubs and campaign leadership, that it is against the campaign financing laws and illegal to have foreign individuals endorsing or supporting fundraisers in the Virgin Islands of the United States. A penalty will be assessed for such action."

Ms. Fawkes was referring to a virtual rally the Bryan campaign held in September, which included speakers and contributors from around the world. In the video, Mr. Skerrit says, "I certainly look forward to working with Governor Bryan in the coming years to solidify our longstanding links and friendships. It gives me great pleasure, therefore, to voice my support for the ongoing efforts of the governor and his team to rebuild the economy of the Virgin Islands and restore the livelihoods of the people following the impacts of Hurricanes Maria and Irma in 2017, and of course the Covid-19 pandemic."

Watch from the 54:06 minute mark.

Mr. Alexandre said the fine of $2,000, which was determined following a probe into the matter by the Supervisor of Elections, has been paid to the Elections System.

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