Senate President Milton E. Potter today issued the following statement in response to Governor Albert Bryan Jr.’s announcement of a forthcoming special session of the Legislature to consider proposals on self-funded insurance, pension limitations for lawmakers, and removing restrictions on government employees running for elected office:
“It is disappointing that I first learned of this proposed special session through media reports. To date, the Governor has not transmitted a single piece of draft legislation, supporting documentation, or any formal communication to the Legislature regarding his stated proposals. As the presiding officer of this body, it is not my intent to be pulled into a press-driven performance meant to distract from the real matters at hand. If this administration is serious about collaboration, transparency, and reform, the process must begin with basic communication and respect for the co-equal branches of government.
The Governor’s remarks this week were not only misleading—they were retaliatory and laced with personal grievance. The tone and substance of his comments demonstrate a leader preoccupied with petty vendettas. Let us be honest: this sudden push is a direct response to the Legislature rightfully repealing a $50,000 salary increase that the Governor quietly inserted into the FY2024 budget. Rather than accept that decision the Governor has chosen to lash out, dressing up political spite as policy reform.
On Self-Funded Insurance
The Governor’s proposal to move the Government of the Virgin Islands to a self-funded insurance model deserves serious scrutiny—not press conference theatrics. Before the Legislature can even begin to entertain such a transition, we must ask: was the Office of the Lieutenant Governor, as the Commissioner of Insurance, consulted? Were the GESC Board and other key stakeholders engaged? Where is the comparative analysis between our current structure and the risks of moving to a self-funded model?
Let me be unequivocal: while self-funding may sound fiscally attractive on paper, it becomes a dangerous and irresponsible gamble when applied to a government with cash flow instability, weak reserves, and limited administrative infrastructure. Under a self-funded model, the government is responsible for paying claims directly. Any disruption in liquidity puts employees’ access to care at risk. A misstep here would result in delayed payments to providers, eroded trust in the system, and serious legal and ethical consequences. To propose such a drastic shift without comprehensive vetting and actuarial review is reckless and premature.
On Legislator Pensions
The Governor’s targeting of current and former public servants who legally receive retirement pensions is as unserious as it is misleading. This practice exists across numerous jurisdictions and is grounded in law. If the Governor believes reform is warranted, let him submit a detailed proposal rather than resorting to name-calling and shaming individual senators from the podium. The attempt to divide lawmakers and incite public ire without offering policy clarity or legal grounding is beneath the dignity of his office.
On Government Employees Seeking Office
Finally, on the question of government employees running for elected office: the Governor’s assertion that senators continue to “travel on government funds” while campaigning is factually incorrect and offensive. More importantly, the legislative history he conveniently omits is telling. The bill to revise the prohibition on candidacy by active public servants was originally introduced by former Senator Janelle Sarauw, then carried by Senator Alma Francis Heyliger, and is currently championed by Senator Marise James. It has not advanced—not due to legislative apathy—but because of consistent resistance from members of our own party.
Yes, the leave-of-absence requirements merit thoughtful reconsideration, particularly in an election year. But unlike members of Congress, senators in the Virgin Islands do not go on recess. We are in active budget negotiations, required by law to pass a balanced budget by October 1.
Senators must fulfill statutory duties, attend hearings, and conduct public oversight. The Governor’s comparisons are flawed, and his failure to acknowledge the structural realities of our legislative calendar once again demonstrates a troubling lack of seriousness.
Closing
The people of the Virgin Islands deserve principled policy, not political stunts. They deserve leadership rooted in cooperation, not combativeness. This Legislature will not be bullied or baited into decisions without proper process, analysis, or respect. If the Governor wishes to be taken seriously, let him act like a serious leader. Until then, this body remains committed to doing the people’s work—responsibly, transparently, and without theatrics.”
