My Return To Politics Not About Personal Gain

Former Communications and Works Minister Mark Vanterpool has dismissed claims that his return to politics and pursuit of leadership are driven by personal interests.

Vanterpool said he is already well established and has overcome poverty, leaving him with no need to seek office for personal benefit.

“My personal ends are well satisfied already. I don't need that. I am very well established. I have been able to come from poverty to where I am,” he told reporters at the launch of his movement, the People’s Leadership Movement (PLM).

The former Fourth District Representative, who plans to contest the next general election, said his focus is on building a better Virgin Islands.

“I'm about building a legacy in this country to help move it in the right direction. That's all I am doing right now. It's not about self at all,” he said.

The PLM was formed after Vanterpool lost the chairmanship race of the National Democratic Party to Marlon Penn in last month’s internal elections.

‘Fourth District Is Ready for Me’

Vanterpool expressed confidence that he will reclaim the Fourth District seat.

“I have served my people for 25 years and they are ready for me again. I am going to represent my people in the Fourth District and explain why I am the better choice,” he said.

Luce Hodge-Smith of the governing Virgin Islands Party currently holds the seat.

Asked whether he would resign if he returned to the House of Assembly but ended up in opposition, Vanterpool rejected the idea.

“No. I will be a preacher from that opposition bench. I'm a good preacher. If I get into the House, you will hear about me every day,” he said.