A political newcomer became an upsetter last night when he claimed a seat for the Progressive Labour Party that many assumed would stick with the One Bermuda Alliance.

Jache Adams cleaned up in Pembroke West with 368 votes against 307 for Marcus Jones, of the OBA, and 39 cast for LeYoni Junos, the candidate for the Free Democratic Movement.

Mr Adams, 35, said: “I’d definitely say people recognise the importance of this election because of these times.

“Ultimately, really and truly what’s riding on it is that a number of people, not just in this constituency but in the country, are pleased with the way the PLP has handled Covid-19.”

He added: “They’re pleased with the leadership in comparison to the leadership of others.

“There are many who do not feel the outcome would have been the same with another leader, and the future would not be the same.”

Mr Adams said: “People are feeling trust in the PLP. I would venture to say that there are white voters that are supporting the PLP, and we welcome that support.”

He added Pembroke West voters had local concerns, such as the poor paving on Spanish Point Road — but on the national level it was “the economy, 1,000 per cent”.

Mr Adams said: “People are starting to see that we have not felt the full effect of Covid-19, and for those who are unemployed or underemployed, the mood is, when can we get back to normal?

“It makes the Government put the economy as the top priority — reducing the cost of living and getting people back to work.”

He added the PLP’s campaign promise of a Bermuda National Digital Bank had generated voter excitement with the possibility of jobs and the kick-starting of the casino industry on the island.

Mr Jones, an OBA senator in the last Parliament, said before the polls closed that voters were put off by the timing of the election.

The candidate, who ran after the OBA’s Jeanne Atherden retired, added: “Some feel it could have been delayed at least until December, to get past the pandemic.”

Ms Junos said voters were “hungry for something to address their concerns”.

She added: “I find people particularly attracted to the FDM on education. They’re tired — they want to see change and improvement. What we’ve had over the years isn’t working.

“The economy is a no-brainer. That’s the dark cloud hanging over us all. That’s why we need fresh ideas.”

Ms Junos said she had been given “unsolicited endorsements” from “people who are descendants of change-makers”.

She added: “I feel like I have embarked on an experiment and an adventure — a necessary one.”