My Time Is Now!

National Democratic Party (NDP) hopeful Aaron Parillon says he is ready to represent the Third District and does not need anyone's approval to enter the race. This is Parillon's third bid at becoming a legislator.

Speaking on Talking Points on ZBVI Radio on June 15, Parillon declared that the time has come for him to seek elected office, in what appeared to be a response to recent comments by aspiring candidate Rajah Smith, who said he would only contest the district if incumbent Representative Julian Fraser does not seek re-election.

Fraser, who has represented the Third District for more than two decades, later responded that a decision on his political future would be made "when the fat lady sings".

'My Time Is Now'

Parillon, who has previously contested the Third District seat twice before, said he is fully committed to the people of the District and is prepared to earn their trust.

“I am not one of those type of men, that need to sit and wait on the approval of someone to make my move,” he said.

“I'm a stand up guy, and I truly believe that myself as a young man, young visionary in this country, my time is now, my place is now.”

He added that residents have already shown confidence in his leadership and community involvement.

Judge Me on My Record

Parillon urged residents to evaluate him based on his actions rather than political promises.

“Judge me based on a track record. Judge me based on what I've done without being elected,” he stated.

He pointed to his community involvement and efforts to promote the Virgin Islands abroad, including representing the Territory at the recent Daring Seafood Festival in Miami with the Razor Blades.

According to Parillon, public service must be rooted in accountability and commitment to the people.

“Staying true to myself, staying true to the word and allowing myself to being held accountable by the people around me,” he said.

Putting People First

Parillon said elected representatives must focus on serving residents rather than personal interests.

“The mission is not self, the mission is generational,” he stated. “You are not employed by the people for self, you are employed by the people to take care of the people. You are servant of the people.”

The Third District hopeful has also spoken about tackling issues affecting residents, including job creation, opportunities for skilled workers, water challenges, small business development and infrastructure concerns. While welcoming ongoing road improvements in the district, he has criticised what he described as poor planning and the excessive dust generated by the works, recently referring to conditions as “dust hell”.

Parillon said if elected, he intends to remain accessible, accountable and focused on delivering results for the people of the Third District.