Former NBA star Rick Fox has officially declared his intention to run in the general election in the Bahamas scheduled for 2026, putting to rest weeks of speculation about his political aspirations.
Fox, who was appointed as the Ambassador-at-Large for Sports in 2022, shared his decision on social media, motivated by a deep love for the Bahamas and an eagerness to transform the nation into the paradise its citizens envision. In a post titled “Bahamas: It’s Better To Be Number One,” he articulated his vision and priorities, stressing the importance of transparency, opportunity, and innovation.
Over the past few months, Fox has been attuned to the hopes and frustrations of his fellow citizens, leading him to conclude that the future of the Bahamas hinges on the choices made today. “We are running out of the one resource we can never get back: TIME,” he emphasized, highlighting the urgent need for providing opportunities for the youth, delivering world-class healthcare, affordable housing, and fostering safe communities.
Fox is framing his campaign as a movement transcending traditional party politics. “This is bigger than party politics. This is The Bahamas versus the world,” he stated, envisioning a nation where every Bahamian feels secure, empowered, and proud, with opportunities flowing and innovation thriving.
Born on July 24, 1969, in Toronto, Canada, Fox is the son of a Bahamian father and a Canadian mother, a former Olympic athlete. He relocated to the Bahamas at an early age and attended Kingsway Academy in Nassau before rising to prominence in basketball in the United States. Although he has not yet disclosed whether he will run as an independent candidate or align with a political party, he has engaged in discussions with representatives from both major parties regarding his potential candidacy.
Fox also addressed current national challenges, recalling the impact of recent hurricanes and emphasizing the necessity for resilience. “Hurricane Future isn’t coming — Hurricane Future is here,” he asserted, calling for actions rooted in clarity, courage, honor, and integrity.
With a campaign built upon values of integrity, innovation, and national pride, Fox seeks to establish himself as a refreshing voice in Bahamian politics. His inspirational outlook for the future encapsulates a vision where “The Bahamas will lead. The Bahamas will rise. The Bahamas will be #1,” reflecting a bold ambition for the nation’s evolution.