National

The Public Reacts to Rick Fox’s Official Entrance Into Politics

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – It was just a month ago Rick Fox declared he would be running in the St. James constituency, but fell short of declaring a party. However on Tuesday, Rick Fox’s ratification became a reality, not for St. James, but for the Garden Hills seat under Free National Movement – creating mixed reactions from the public.

Published

1 month ago

February 4, 2026

Denielle Miller

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – It was just a month ago Rick Fox declared he would be running in the St. James constituency, but fell short of declaring a party.

His ratification Tuesday night was a game changer in some ways.

Bahamians watched with great interest as he was named the Free National Movement’s (FNM) Garden Hills candidate, immediately sparking an online debate.

On the Our News digital platform alone, hundreds of users commented.

One follower called his move into politics is “cringe worthy,” while another questions his contributions to the local community.

Meanwhile on the streets, responses varied.

Resident Michael Francis told us Fox is exercising his constitutional right, and if he has the resources to operate as an efficient Member of Parliament, he see’s no issue.

Michael Francis – Resident

“I truly think that if he can help his constituency and he’s using his own money to help the constituency rather than getting all the money out of the government…”

Another resident calls Fox’s entry into politics noble as he has nothing to gain but everything to lose.

Carl – Owner, Bahama Ink

“He has success in the NBA, in Hollywood and other ventures. [so] I’m sure as a businessman he’s successful, he have nothing to gain.”

To add, Bahamians weren’t the the only ones chiming in.

New Jersey native Jermaine Steves, on on holiday here, says he was not aware Fox was of Bahamian heritage, and that the news of the retired laker now wanting to be drafted for politics left him shocked.

Jermaine Steves – U.S. Resident

“I didn’t know he had any views on politics, so yea that’s shocking to me. He hasn’t even expressed his views in the United States, but for him to be running for a position in another country, yea that’s pretty shocking.”