Golden Isles by-election: Why Darren Pickstock’s message could backfire
Some political observers, according to The Nassau Guardian, say Darron Pickstock’s message of neglect in Golden Isles might actually hurt the Progressive Liberal Party and even cast a shadow on his late colleague, Vaughn Miller.
Here’s why:
Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) candidate Darron Pickstock has made “real progress” his campaign theme, saying residents of Golden Isles have been “ignored and neglected” for years. But the problem is, his party has been in power since 2021, and the previous Member of Parliament, Vaughn Miller, was also a PLP member.
When Pickstock criticizes the lack of progress, he is implying that the PLP government and Miller didn’t deliver enough for the people of Golden Isles.
Why it’s a ‘poor reflection’
Miller served as the sitting MP until his death in September. By saying the constituency was “ignored,” Pickstock risks suggesting Miller did not do his job as the member of parliament, even though Miller had recently crossed over from the FNM to the PLP before winning the seat a second time in 2021. Some residents believed Miller was not an effective member of parliament and did very little for the area.
Prime Minister Philip Davis’ government has the resources and authority to fix roads, streetlights, and parks. If those issues remained unfixed after three years in power, voters will ask: Why didn’t your government do something about the problems in the area?
The dilemma is that he is running as a government candidate, but talking like an opposition one.
Pickstock, appearing to be seen as a fresh, action-driven candidate, may be seeking to connect with frustrated voters, but he is also putting his party in an awkward position. His criticism suggests that the PLP has not done enough for the very community it represents.
The bottom line
By highlighting neglect of this government, Pickstock’s message can be seen as a self-inflicted wound, a campaign reminder of what the PLP has not delivered for Golden Isles.
