The Progessive Labour Party claimed victory in Bermuda's general election on Thursday night, winning in 22 seats to the United Bermuda Party's 14. By 11 p.m. (Bermuda time), the PLP had polled 15,061 votes, or 51.9 percent, to the UBP's 13,853 votes, or 47.7 percent of ballots cast. About 28,914 out of 39,853 eligible voters turned out for the ballot.

PLP leader, Premier Jennifer Smith held her St. George's North seat by only eight votes in St. George's North, polling 423 votes against a strong showing by the United Bermuda Party's Kenny Bascome, who polled 415 votes. Gavin Smith, of the Gombey Liberation Party, drew 16 votes.

Third parties and Independent candidates did not appear to be a factor in any of the 36 races across the Island.

In some high profile battles, PLP MP Dale Butler defeated UBP challenger Mark Pettingill in a closely contested race in Warwick East by 437 to 399.

The PLP's Dean Foggo also defeated former UBP Sen. Kim Swan in St. George's West in a race decided by just 22 votes with Mr. Foggo securing 445 votes and Mr. Swan's 423.

Other PLP winners included Deputy Premier Eugene Cox, Transport Minister Ewart Brown, Tourism Minister Renee Webb, Glen Blakeney and Speaker Stanley Lowe.

UBP winners included party leader Grant Gibbons, John Barritt, Patricia Gordon-Pamplin and Louise Jackson.

Turnout was described as 'fairly heavy' in what the latest polls predicted would be a close race characterised by a large number of undecided voters.

The Progressive Labour Party was fighting for a second consecutive term while the United Bermuda Party was bidding to return to power after a decisive defeat ended a 30-year term of power.

The last election saw the PLP win 26 seats and the UBP 14.

Premier Jennifer Smith is seeking a second term as Premier, while Grant Gibbons succeeded former Premier Pamela Gordon who resigned two years after the UBP's defeat.

The six-week campaign was largely characterised by the PLP running on its record while the "new" UBP rolled out a number of initiatives on housing, crime, the elderly and education.