The Big Story
Why today’s advance poll matters for Golden Isles
With just one week before the Golden Isles by-election, today’s advance poll offered the first glimpse into voter energy and exposed the rising tension surrounding one of the most-watched political races of the year.
The advance poll, held at Remnant Tabernacle of Praise Church on Carmichael Road, brought out seniors, law enforcement officers, and other approved early voters. But outside, the atmosphere reflected how high the stakes have become.
A charged atmosphere outside the polls
Supporters from the major parties gathered near the voting site, trading chants and jabs as police worked to keep the area orderly.
At one point, PLP and COI supporters shouted slogans at each other, underscoring the fierce competition for the seat left vacant after the passing of MP Vaughn Miller.
Noise complaints also surfaced, with both PLP and COI representatives objecting to loud music coming from the Free National Movement’s area.
FNM Leader Michael Pintard brushed off the criticism, calling the disputes “sideshows,” while PLP candidate Darron Pickstock argued that either all parties should be allowed to play music or none at all.
The Coalition of Independents, meanwhile, pressed officers to intervene as tensions rose.
Despite the exchanges, election officials confirmed that the voting process inside remained smooth.
Why the advance poll matters
While the number of voters participating in advance polling is typically small compared to the full electorate, today’s turnout and the intensity outside the polling stations are early signals of momentum heading into November 24.
Here’s why today’s advance poll is important:
1. It gauges voter energy
Advance polls often show which base is more motivated. Parties will quietly study energy levels to assess whether their supporters and voters are mobilized.
2. It tests campaign messaging
The noise disputes and back-and-forth chants reveal which narratives will resonate and how strongly supporters and voters feel going into the final stretch.
3. It sets the tone for byelection week
What played out today is likely a preview of what’s ahead. Campaigns will analyze the mood outside today’s voting site and fine-tune their strategy for November 24.
What’s at stake on November 24
The Golden Isles by-election is more than a constituency vote.
The outcome will:
- Determine who represents one of New Providence’s fastest-growing constituencies.
- Serve as an early measure of political momentum before the next general election.
- Shape the narrative on key voter concerns like trust in government, oversight, cost of living, etc
With tensions already running high, today’s advance poll shows the by-election will not be a quiet day. The real test comes next week, when the wider Golden Isles electorate heads to the polls.
