With the government entering its fourth year, I had to make an important economic choice. Do we spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on 3, 4, 5 or more by-elections and then have to pay for a general election?

Or, is it more financially prudent to just go ahead and call a general election and allow those MPs who wish to retire the opportunity to do so? I chose the option that saves Bermudian taxpayers money.

I also thought about the 20 months of bickering that a series of by-elections would bring. Instead of subjecting Bermudians to months of division, I found it prudent to call a general election that would allow the government chosen by the people to focus squarely on our economic recovery and make tough choices.

I chose to get on with it.

The truth is, tough times lie ahead. And, the government needs the backing of the people to make the hard decisions today that will benefit all Bermudians in the long run.

On October 1st, Bermudians will choose who they want to lead us through these trying times and the economic recovery.

We ably led us through to the new normal and now we seek your support to rebuild the economy in a way that works for all Bermudians, and not just the rich and powerful who have always had it all.

Bermuda and the world have changed since the last election. These times require capable, steady and proven leadership – leadership that cares for Bermudians, is focused on ably managing the coronavirus and our economic recovery, providing affordable health care, and phasing out middle schools. We need strong leadership, solid plans for the future, and vision to see us through to better times. It is in difficult times like these that we ask for your support, because we are working to keep our promises and we are working every day to put Bermudians like you first.

The deadline to register to vote to participate in the election will be August 29th. Nomination day will be September 10th. Election Day will be Thursday, October 1st.