With national elections fast approaching, the government of The Bahamas has hired prominent allies of Donald Trump in a strategic move aimed at strengthening relations with the United States.
The administration of Prime Minister Philip Davis has brought on conservative commentator CJ Pearson, who recently registered as a foreign agent. According to official filings, Pearson will earn $20,000 per month to support communication efforts designed to enhance diplomatic engagement between the two countries.
In a parallel development, longtime Trump associate Roger Stone updated his foreign agent registration linked to lobbying work for The Bahamas. While initial filings indicated a $125,000 monthly agreement through a consulting firm, revised documents show a reduced payment of $100,000. Stone declined to comment on the arrangement.
Also participating in the effort is Doug Davenport, underscoring the government’s outreach to influential figures within U.S. political networks.
Election Strategy Amid Rising Tensions
The move comes as the ruling Progressive Liberal Party campaigns for another term in office. The involvement of Bahamas Trump allies reflects a broader strategy to navigate shifting diplomatic dynamics, particularly as tensions grow over the country’s relationship with China.
At the center of the issue is a $285 million hospital project in Nassau financed by Chinese funds. Herschel Walker, now serving as U.S. ambassador, publicly questioned the agreement, raising concerns about legal jurisdiction and long-term implications for Bahamian sovereignty.
Walker stated that the United States remains willing to support infrastructure development in The Bahamas under alternative financing models aligned with international standards.
Government Pushback and Public Reaction
Foreign Minister Fred Mitchell responded by seeking clarification from U.S. officials while defending the government’s approach. He argued that the hospital project had faced years of delay due to the absence of concrete support from Washington.
Despite this, the decision to hire high-profile lobbyists has sparked criticism at home. Opposition leaders and citizens alike have raised concerns over government spending, especially as some public workers continue to face delayed wages.
Reports suggest the administration has spent approximately $250 million on consultancy services between 2021 and early 2025, adding fuel to the debate.
Regional Trend and U.S. Pressure
The Bahamas is part of a wider regional pattern, with several Caribbean nations engaging lobbyists tied to U.S. political circles. Countries including Haiti, Guyana, and the Dominican Republic have taken similar steps amid increasing pressure from Washington over foreign policy alignment.
Key issues include relations with Cuba, the use of Cuban medical professionals, and U.S. immigration policies affecting deportation agreements.
Within this context, the role of Bahamas Trump allies highlights a calculated effort to maintain strong U.S. ties while balancing other international partnerships.
Tight Race and Campaign Controversy
The upcoming election will see the Progressive Liberal Party face the opposition Free National Movement in what is expected to be a closely watched contest. Both parties are under scrutiny abroad due to allegations tied to corruption and drug trafficking cases involving law enforcement officials.
Adding to the spotlight is first-time candidate Rick Fox. The former professional basketball player recently went viral following a heated campaign incident, which he later described as a response to threats against him and his team.
Fox defended his actions, framing them as standing up against intimidation, and drew comparisons to his role as an enforcer during his basketball career.
