Penn should join the VIP government, Skelton Cline suggests

Talk show host and political commentator Claude Skelton Cline has suggested that Eighth District Representative Marlon Penn consider joining the government.

Appearing on his Honestly Speaking radio programme, Skelton Cline argued that unity within the Virgin Islands’ political leadership is essential for the territory’s progress.

“If I were the member for the Eighth [District], I would join the government. I would tell them you all offer me something so I can come do some work,” said Skelton Cline. He explained that a cooperative approach between government and opposition would address the stagnation caused by political division.

Skelton Cline proposed that the current political framework, dominated by party politics, impeded national growth.
“What we really need in this country is a united government, not a party government. This party system is creating too many divisive spirits among us, and it is stagnating the country,” he stated.

The suggestion comes amidst discussions about the opposition’s leadership dynamics and a perceived lack of cohesion within their ranks. Skelton Cline noted that some opposition members appeared to be consolidating into a singular group. However, he emphasised that cooperation, not internal conflict, would yield better outcomes.

The host warned that Penn, who serves as the Chair of the National Democratic Party, may be in danger of being undermined as party leader, even as the opposition struggles for cohesion. “The Member for the Eighth is losing his ability to leverage, to negotiate,” Skelton-Cline said. “Given the trend of what I see happening, sir, if you don’t bust a move before, they’re going to bust a move on you.”

He also highlighted historical precedents where political rivals united to achieve common goals, referencing the late Ralph O’Neal’s era when a former National Democratic Party member crossed the political aisle to join O’Neal’s government.

“So, this model has been tried and worked. Because if you don’t move, sir, they’re getting ready to hit you a shot,” he added.

Skelton Cline urged Penn and others in opposition to prioritise national interests over personal ambitions. “Stop pretending and acting and wearing masks and being hypocrites. Speak truth in love for the benefit of this country,” he appealed.

Skelton Cline also directed a message to the government, stressing the importance of delivering on key development projects, including the Terrance B Lettsome airport expansion and other infrastructure projects. “Enough of all this talking. It’s time to get some things done,” he said, calling for decisive action to reinvigorate the economy.