PLP’s Reverend Emily Gail Dill wins Sandys North

A jubilant Reverend Emily Gail Dill secured victory for the Progressive Labour Party (PLP) in Sandys North last night, winning a four-way contest in the by-election. Dr. Dill claimed the seat with 162 votes, in what many viewed as a political indicator as the island edges closer to the next General Election.

The Parliamentary Registry reported the other candidates’ results: Marc Bean of the Free Democratic Movement received 108 votes, independent candidate Ci’re Bean garnered 95, and Carl Neblett of the One Bermuda Alliance finished with 91 votes.

Dr. Dill, a former senator, was accompanied by Premier David Burt as the final results were announced. Addressing the crowd at the Allen Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church Hall, she said, “It is truly an honor to serve you, and I look forward to doing so in the House of Parliament.” She expressed excitement over her victory in a race that featured four candidates.

Throughout election day, voters visited the Allen Temple Church Hall, with some sharing their views with The Royal Gazette, expressing frustration with party politics while emphasizing the need for the elected representative to prioritize community concerns.

The by-election was called following the August resignation of Kathy Lynn Simmons, the former Attorney-General, who had comfortably won the seat for the PLP in the October 2020 General Election with 431 votes, nearly 60% of the total. Marc Bean came in second in that election with 185 votes, while the OBA’s Jeff Sousa finished with 114 votes.

Premier Burt, commenting on the party’s next steps, stated, “Tonight is a celebration and confirmation that a daughter of Sandys retains the seat for the Progressive Labour Party.” He acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed confidence in Dr. Dill’s ability to serve the people of Sandys North, calling her an “amazing representative.”

Dr. Dill also took the opportunity to thank her fellow candidates, saying, “It has been an interesting journey, and we intend to work alongside them. I’ve heard many say they look forward to collaborating, and I welcome that.”

She gave special thanks to the Sandys community and Constituency 36 branch members for their hard work, noting, “I wouldn’t have made it without their support.”

Acknowledging the close race, Dr. Dill added, “I know there are individuals who didn’t vote for me in large numbers, especially in a four-horse race, but what I found is that the people of this constituency are ready to move forward. They want strong representation, and I’m committed to being there for them.”