ST. THOMAS — Donna Frett-Gregory topped the Democratic Primary in the St. Thomas-St. John District on Saturday, joining Alicia Barnes and Allison DeGazon on St. Croix, two women who nabbed the first and second spots respectively in the St. Croix District. In capturing the most votes, the three women received a mandate from residents, many of whom are hungry for change and new faces in the territory’s halls of power.
On Facebook this morning, Mrs. Frett-Gregory expressed gratitude to her supporters for the strong victory. “Thank you St. Thomas/St. John for your overwhelming support. I am humbled and encouraged by the confidence vote,” she said.
Ms. DeGazon and Ms. Barnes expressed gratitude on their respective Facebook pages as well. Their stories are here and here.
Mrs. Frett-Gregory received 13 percent of the votes in the St. Thomas-St. John District with 2,704 ballots cast in her favor. She was followed by Marvin Blyden, who was the top vote-getter last election, with 2,289 votes. See full results here.
Senator Jean Forde barely held on in the race, coming in 7th place with 1,512 votes. Mr. Forde will face stiff competition in the general election. Historically, Democrats who come in 7th place in the primary election don’t survive in the general election when strong independent candidates are vying for office.
Senate President Myron Jackson came in fourth with 1,972 votes. Also winning a seat and coming in strong was Athneil Thomas, who came in third with 2,075 votes. Other winners included Stedman Hodge, Jr. in fifth place with 1,883 votes, followed by Carla Joseph in sixth place with 1,644 votes.
On St. Croix, incumbents Novelle Francis and Kurt Vialet ceded the top positions to Ms. DeGazon and Ms. Barnes.
Tags: alicia barnes, Allison Degazon, donna frett-gregory