“I am not afraid to stand alone, but I’m also happy to associate. For now I’m standing alone,” Smith said during an appearance on the Talking Points program on April 13.

Smith said he has begun canvassing opinions in the Fifth District and informed current district representative Hon. Kye Rymer of his intentions. He said he had previously declined to contest the district out of loyalty to a promise made to both his late mother and Rymer, but indicated that position has since changed.

He stopped short of declaring a formal candidacy, saying he is still assessing his options, including whether to remain independent or affiliate with a political party. “It could well be a party,” he said, adding that any decision would be based on “the common good of the people.”

Smith also rejected suggestions that he is aligned with the “all 13 must go” political movement, though he acknowledged discussions with various groups.

A longtime businessman, Smith said his interest in public office is rooted in concerns about social conditions and what he described as a growing disconnect between government and residents. “The people [have] been left behind for a very long time,” he said, adding that addressing those issues would require a structured, data-driven approach to identify and assist those most in need.

He also cited food security as a priority, calling for increased local agricultural production and community-based farming initiatives. Referencing the impact of Hurricane Maria in 2017, Smith said the territory remains vulnerable due to its reliance on imports. “We have to invest in ourselves,” he said, proposing container farming and localized food-sharing systems.

Election records show Smith received 922 votes, or 2.72 percent, as an at-large PVIM candidate in the 2019 general election. In the 2023 general election, he received 851 votes, or 2.35 percent, as an independent at-large candidate.

Asked why voters should support him if he enters the race, Smith said he would bring experience and a willingness to listen. “I’m not perfect. I’ve made mistakes. I will make mistakes, but I’m willing to listen,” he said. “I’m going to continue giving back in or out of politics.”

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