Sen. Roosevelt David announced Tuesday that after winning two legislative elections as an independent, he is committing himself to the Democratic Party.
David, already a registered Democrat, made his announcement to a roomful of Democratic supporters, legislative colleagues and Gov.-elect Charles Turnbull.
His announcement was heralded by Senate President Lorraine Berry; Jimmy O'Bryan, chairman of the V.I. Democratic Party; Senate President-elect Vargrave Richards; and Sen.-elect George Goodwin.
Turnbull said David's decision shows that "we're going to work together — the administration, the Legislature and the delegate — to bring about a brighter future."
In an interview after the press conference Turnbull said he wants the public to understand that the recent recommendations from his transition team are only preliminary. Among the recommendations: cut extraneous high-level positions, revise the tax laws, overhaul the Industrial Development Commission and focus more on overnight visitors than the in-and-out cruise-ship passengers.
"The final report will be given to me on Dec. 28 and after review, I will hold a news conference to discuss the final recommendations," Turnbull said.