Smith Commits to VIP Ticket as Brother Leads Rival Party

Lorna Smith, Junior Minister for Financial Services and Economic Development, has declared her backing for the Virgin Islands Party (VIP) as she prepares for the upcoming General Election, settling speculation about where her loyalties lie heading into the polls.

Appearing on Talking Points, Smith expressed strong support for the current administration. She described herself as "very much with the government," noted that she works closely with its members, backs their agenda and "enjoys working with them." She also praised the administration's performance, calling it an "excellent job," and confirmed plans to run on the VIP slate.

Smith did not formally announce her candidacy, deferring that step to VIP Chairman Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley.

Her statement carries particular weight given her political journey. After the 2023 General Election produced no clear majority, Smith joined the VIP-led administration, a pivotal moment in the Territory's political aftermath. She subsequently held the post of Deputy Premier and Minister for Financial Services, Labour and Trade until her removal from Cabinet in October 2024. She was reappointed to government in 2025 in her current junior minister role.

Smith's endorsement of the VIP takes on added significance because of her family ties to Mark Vanterpool, who now leads the People's Leadership Movement (PLM), a newly launched political alternative. Vanterpool, Smith's brother and a former Fourth District representative, is contesting the election under the PLM banner and has indicated the movement will field candidates across the Territory.

The siblings are now positioned in opposing political camps, a development that has drawn public attention. Following Smith's 2023 decision to join the VIP, some observers suggested Vanterpool had influenced her move, using language that he "walked her across the aisle to the VIP."

Vanterpool addressed this perception earlier this year on Morning Facts, denying he pressured or orchestrated Smith's alignment with the VIP. He characterised Smith as "very clear-minded" and said she made her own choice, though he backed her decision and believed her skills would serve the Territory better from within government than from Opposition ranks.

With both siblings now publicly committed to different political paths, their respective campaigns are likely to remain subjects of voter interest as the election approaches.