The Democratic Party of the Virgin Islands held its presidential preference and delegate selection caucus on Saturday, June 6, 2020, returning an expected result that saw presidential candidate Joseph Robinette Biden Jr aka 'Joe' capturing a dominant victory. Photo: VIC

With 505 Democrats participating, Mr Biden captured 91 percent of the votes, while Bernie Sanders received 5.09 percent, according to the local Democratic Party.

The party said over the years it has been consistent in its support of the Democratic National Convention. "The Virgin Islands Democratic Party remains steadfast in upholding the ideals of the DNC and embraces the opportunity to participate in this way. We are grateful to everyone who’s contributed in one way or the other towards a successful 2020 caucus,” stated State Chairman Cecil Benjamin.

Thursday and Friday were designated as early voting which was incorporated into the caucus where an increase in voter participation was realised, according to the party. The coronavirus was the impetus for St. Thomas implementing drive-thru voting, which the party described as "extremely successful."

Victory & celebration

All three precincts opened at 7:00 am and closed at 7:00 pm. The exit polls revealed that on average, participants were extremely satisfied with the process of drive-thru voting. Participants were engaging and celebrated Mr Biden’s victory, according to the release.

The delegates from the St Croix District are Florine Audain Hassell, Sonia Boyce, Robert Rios, and Atty Ronald Russell. Together with an alternate and a page, they now join the six automatic delegates — Governor Albert A. Bryan, Delegate to Congress Stacey E. Plaskett, State Chair Cecil Benjamin, Vice-Chair Carla Joseph, National Committee Woman Carol Burke, and National Committeeman Kevin Rodriquez — who will represent the Virgin Islands at the convention.

According to Carol Burke, National Committee Woman and Caucus Coordinator, “We are very excited, we are seizing the moment and we know that we are in a good place. This achievement is very personal for us as St Croix is Joe Biden’s sanctuary. While our caucus comes on the heels of Biden securing the presidential nominee, our role is pivotal. We will serve as the anchor, yet we will help to set the compass of this historic moment. Every vote count and we will play an integral part as we organise, galvanise and energise Caribbean American voters to support Joe Biden for president."