Mapp To Attend Annual Governors’ Meeting In Washington

Governor Kenneth Mapp will join the nation’s governors in Washington, DC this week for the National Governors Association (NGA) Winter Meeting to discuss issues affecting states and territories, as well as to share best practices to address some of the nation’s challenges.

“The NGA Winter Meeting is an opportunity to meet with our colleagues and discuss the many issues facing us as we govern.  This meeting is a chance to examine great ideas from around the country so we can push forward in areas such as jobs, education, and healthcare, and government efficiency,” Mapp said. “As a new member of the NGA, I am looking forward to meeting and networking with my colleagues.”

On Feb. 19, Mapp will attend the Southern Governors Association Winter Forum. There, meetings will center on economic competitiveness, manufacturing, trade and investment, innovation and emerging issues, workforce-education, health-wellness, and energy-natural resources.

On Feb. 20 – 21, NGA meetings will begin with sessions centered on the economy, economic development and commerce.

On Feb. 22, discussions will turn to education and workforce development, homeland security and public safety, with a focus on cyber-security. There will also be sessions on health and human services, and a committee meeting on natural resources. In the evening, the governors will be received at the White House for a black-tie affair hosted by President and Mrs. Obama.

On Feb. 23, the final day of Mapp’s tour, a session will be convened to approve new policies. The governors will again visit the White House for a private meeting with President Obama and Vice President Joe Biden. A news conference will follow that meeting at the White House.

While in Washington, Mapp will also meet with other officials that have shown interest in the Virgin Islands, such as U.S. Senate Majority Leader Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY), who recently visited Mapp at Government House; Congressman Charlie Rangle (D-NY); Congressman Bill Shuster (R-PA); and Sen. Kristen Gillibrand (D-NY).

Lt. Governor Osbert Potter will serve as the territory’s acting governor in Mapp’s absence.