In a frenzied but semi-functional reconvened meeting of the V.I. Joint Board of Elections on Wednesday, the board reappointed the current supervisor of elections and took some long-awaited, though slightly retroactive, steps toward election reform. The meeting, which was recessed while in executive session on July 12, reconvened about 9:45 a.m., still in executive session for the purpose of discussing the position of supervisor of the V.I. Election System.
Within an hour, the board re-opened to the public, and St. Croix member Dodson James reported that they had discussed the findings of the Screening Committee, which recommended two names: current Elections Supervisor John Abramson Jr. and James Weber III.
James then moved to reappoint Abramson for another 8-year term in the position, drawing a quick objection from St. Croix member Adelbert Bryan, who cited a number of concerns about Abramson’s conduct. Bryan said Abramson was hostile during a number of contentious but unofficial meetings earlier in the year, and that he failed to fully report his actions to the board, saying the board turns “a blind eye to actions from Mr. Abramson.”
Bryan also expressed concern that none of the candidates had to submit to a drug test or offer a police record.
After some back and forth, Joint Board Chairman Rupert Ross Jr. called for roll call, drawing an immediate, “No,” from St. Thomas member Lawrence Boschulte across the table.
Ross asked if he was opposed to the roll being called.
“No, that’s my vote,” Boschulte responded.
At the end of the vote, 10 board members voted in favor of Abramson’s reinstatement and three – Boschulte, Bryan and St. Thomas member Wilma Marsh Monsanto – voted against. St. John member Harry Daniel was absent.
Full Article: Abramson’s tenure extended in 10-3 vote – News – Virgin Islands Daily News.