ST. CROIX — Senator Marise C. James announced on Monday that she will not seek re-election to the 37th Legislature of the Virgin Islands, calling her decision one made after “deep reflection and prayer.”
The announcement was first shared during a live radio appearance on Analyze This with Neville James and further detailed in an official letter to the community dated September 8.
“After deep reflection, prayer, and many conversations with my family, I have decided that I will not seek re-election. This was not an easy decision, because serving you in the Senate has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Sen. James wrote.
She pledged to continue working diligently for the remainder of her term, supporting both her own legislation and measures introduced by colleagues. Her commitment, she said, remains focused on improving the lives of Virgin Islanders.
James reflected on her family’s nearly 80-year tradition of public service, which began with her grandfather Aloysius A. James and continued with her father, Dr. Randall N. James, her brother Neville A. James, former Lieutenant Governor Gerard Luz A. James II, and other relatives who have served in elected office. “I am deeply proud of the James legacy of public service,” she said.
Her letter also paid tribute to her mother, Constance Espinosa Roberts, and grandmother, Margrethe Pedersen Espinosa, who she credited with instilling a love of education and the principle that has guided her public life: “Do right by people.”
James expressed gratitude to Virgin Islanders for their trust, while acknowledging the personal sacrifices her family endured during her time in office. She noted the challenges of political life, including public scrutiny and “hurtful lies,” but said she always voted her conscience in the public’s interest rather than in service to campaign donors.
Looking ahead, James said her service to the community will continue outside elected office. “With my law degree, my experience, and my deep love for the Virgin Islands, I know that there is still so much more I can do for my community outside of elected office. This is not the end — it is simply the beginning of another chapter in my life,” she said.
British Caribbean News
