Board Member Williams: Supervisor Can’t Change Photo ID Law or Board Policies

Board Member Williams: Supervisor Can’t Change Photo ID Law or Board Policies

CHRISTIANSTED — The supervisor of elections cannot unilaterally disregard the intent of territorial elections law on her own nor can she reverse established practice aimed at ensuring free, fair and honest elections, the top-ranking Republican on the Virgin Islands Board of Elections said.

The statement from Board of Elections member Jevon Williams, Republican–St. Croix, came after Supervisor of Elections Caroline Fawkes changed policy without a meeting of the board. The news was first reported Friday by the Virgin Islands Daily News.

“Only the Legislature can amend territorial law and only the Board of Elections can create or amend policies and procedures,” Williams said. “The only people intimidated by a requirement to produce photo identification before voting are those who collude to undermine our most fundamental right to vote in a free, fair and honest election. I
fully support the intent of Virgin Islands election law.”

An unsolicited letter from Tricia D. Sealey on October 24 apparently prompted Fawkes to make the change. You can read the letter below:

Board Member Williams: Supervisor Can’t Change Photo ID Law or Board Policies
Board Member Williams: Supervisor Can’t Change Photo ID Law or Board Policies
Board Member Williams: Supervisor Can’t Change Photo ID Law or Board Policies
Board Member Williams: Supervisor Can’t Change Photo ID Law or Board Policies