ROAD TOWN, Tortola, Virgin Islands — Businessman, community advocate and horse racing enthusiast Lesmore Smith has once again thrown his hat into the political ring, announcing his intention to contest the Fifth Electoral District seat in the next General Election.
Smith is no stranger to politics. His latest bid marks another chapter in a political journey that has seen him campaign both as an independent candidate and under a political banner. In the 2023 General Election, Smith aligned himself with the Progressive Virgin Islands Movement (PVIM) as an At Large candidate. More recently, however, Smith has signaled a return to independent politics, while remaining open to joining a party should the right opportunity arise.
Known as the founder of Top Priority Security Services, Smith has built a reputation as a businessman deeply involved in community initiatives. Over the years, he has been associated with youth development efforts, sports sponsorships, athletics support, and community events, earning recognition from various sectors of society for his willingness to assist where needed. His involvement in horse racing and sporting activities has also made him a familiar figure across the territory.
Supporters argue that Smith’s extensive business experience and grassroots engagement position him as a candidate who understands the challenges facing ordinary residents. They point to his accessibility and longstanding presence in the district as strengths that could resonate with voters looking for an alternative to traditional politics.
However, the road to victory will not be easy.
Standing in his way is incumbent Fifth District Representative Kye Rymer, one of the more established figures in present Virgin Islands politics. Rymer, who has served multiple terms in the House of Assembly and held ministerial portfolios, benefits from incumbency, name recognition, and a proven political machinery. His supporters point to infrastructure improvements, constituency assistance, and government experience as reasons he remains a formidable candidate.
Political observers suggest that Smith’s chances will depend largely on his ability to convert his community goodwill into votes and present a compelling vision for the district. While his profile has grown since his previous election efforts, defeating an incumbent remains one of the most difficult tasks in politics.
Another factor could be voter sentiment leading into the next election. If public frustration with the political status quo intensifies, challengers like Smith may find fertile ground for their campaigns. Conversely, if constituents remain satisfied with Rymer’s representation, the incumbent could enter the race with a significant advantage.
For now, the Fifth District appears set to become one of the more closely watched electoral battlegrounds. With Lesmore Smith declaring his intentions early and Kye Rymer expected to defend his seat vigorously, voters can anticipate a contest that will test experience against grassroots activism and determine who will represent one of Tortola’s most politically significant districts.
As the election season gathers momentum, all eyes will be on whether Lesmore Smith can transform years of community involvement into electoral success or whether Kye Rymer’s incumbency and political experience will once again carry the day.