Jeff Baron’s Resignation as OBA MP Prompts By-Election in C25 Warwick North East

It’s just a matter of time before Bermudians who live in Constituency 25 Warwick North East will be asked to go to the polls to vote for a candidate to replace former One Bermuda Alliance MP Jeff Baron.

Mr Baron resigned yesterday for “family reasons”. He also predicted that the Opposition could struggle to hold on the seat he vacated.

“The voters are clever. They’re going to look at the candidates,” he said.

The former Shadow Minister of National Security said the OBA will “circle their wagons and come up with a strategy” in the lead up to the vote to select his replacement.

And while he said he would have “no say” on who the OBA candidate will be, he said: “I am not going to endorse anyone, either.”

He also wished constituents in the area “the very best in their decision-making”.

OBA leader Jeanne Atherden thanked Mr Baron “for his service to Bermuda, Constituency 25, and to the Party”. 

“Jeff is leaving politics to pursue other personal endeavours. On behalf of the Party, we wish much success,” she said.

Former Premier and party leader, Michael Dunkley said: “I was surprised and disappointed to learn of the resignation of Jeff Baron this morning.

“The sudden resignation with little notification to his colleagues brings to an end his short and once promising political service.

“My experience in politics has made me acutely aware of the very difficult task of juggling family, politics and employment.

“Mr Baron is not the first to face this challenge. It was evident in his case during House sittings but I am pleased to learn he has secured employment and is focused on his young son.

“I take this opportunity to thank him for his service and especially for his support when I was the Premier.

“I wish him all the best.”

Mr Baron won the constituency by a margin of 493-428 over PLP candidate Kathy Lynn Simmons, who has since been appointed a senator and Attorney-General as the Minister of Legal Affairs.