Mrs. Caroline F. Fawkes, Supervisor of Elections, states the Elections System of the Virgin Islands is aware of social media posts circulating online that claim a ballot becomes invalid if an election official writes or marks on it. Supervisor Fawkes is issuing this statement to provide accurate information and reassure voters about the integrity of the election process in the U.S. Virgin Islands. 

Claims suggesting that a ballot is automatically invalidated solely because of a notation, mark, or handling by election personnel do not accurately reflect election administration practices. Election procedures are governed by law, established regulations, and official election protocols designed to protect the integrity, security, and accurate tabulation of every valid vote. 

In the U.S. Virgin Islands, elections officials are trained to follow approved procedures for the handling, processing, and safeguarding of ballots. Election officials are not instructed to place markings on ballots. 

The Office of the Supervisor of Elections encourages voters to exercise caution when reviewing election-related information shared on social media. Information that lacks context or originates from unofficial sources may lead to confusion regarding election laws and procedures. 

Voters seeking accurate information are encouraged to rely on official communications issued by the Elections System of the Virgin Islands via our website, vivote.gov or Facebook, Elections System of the Virgin Islands. 

Protecting public confidence in the electoral process is a responsibility shared by election officials, candidates, voters, and community stakeholders. The Office remains committed to transparency, accuracy, and ensuring that every eligible voter has confidence that elections are conducted fairly, securely, and in accordance with the law. 

We remain committed to protecting the integrity of the electoral process while ensuring that voters have access to accurate information rather than speculation or misinformation. 

For additional information, you may contact the Office of the Supervisor of Elections at (340) 773-1021-St. Croix and (340) 774-3107-St. Thomas