CHARLOTTE AMALIE, U.S. Virgin Islands — The 2026 political race in the U.S. Virgin Islands has entered a new phase after Stacey E. Plaskett and Milton E. Potter won the Democratic gubernatorial primary.

Plaskett, the territory’s Delegate to Congress, and Potter, President of the Virgin Islands Senate, defeated two other Democratic tickets in the August 1 primary. Turnout reached 47.75 percent, with nearly 10,000 voters casting ballots.

The result gives the Plaskett-Potter ticket a prominent position heading into the November 3 general election.

The campaign focused heavily on government performance, economic development and whether the territory’s access to federal resources is translating into measurable improvements for residents.

Governor Albert Bryan Jr., who is unable to seek another term, congratulated the Democratic primary winners and called for unity following the contest.

The outcome also marks an important political transition for the territory, with voters preparing to choose a new administration after Bryan’s two terms in Government House.

The November election is expected to bring renewed attention to issues including infrastructure, public finances, healthcare, water security, economic development and the delivery of government services.

Plaskett’s move from the congressional seat into the gubernatorial contest also adds significance to the upcoming election, while Potter brings his experience from the territorial Legislature.

The Democratic ticket will now face the other candidates advancing toward the general election.

With the primary now decided, the political spotlight shifts toward the November contest and the competing visions for the future of the U.S. Virgin Islands.