Prime Minister Gaston Browne says a national political shift is placing nearly every seat held by the opposition United Progressive Party on Antigua within reach of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party.

“There is a national swing that puts nearly every UPP seat on Antigua within reach,” Browne said during his weekly Browne and Browne radio programme.

The prime minister pointed to polling data which he said shows Labour holding a strong advantage, with 49 percent support compared to 26 percent for the UPP.

“Both polls—our internal polling and theirs—are showing the same thing, that there is a significant decline in support for the UPP,” Browne said.

He also cited leadership ratings, claiming he holds 59 percent support compared to 15 percent for Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle.

“I lead Pringle 59 percent to 15 percent in terms of leadership support,” Browne said.

Browne argued that the opposition’s standing has been further weakened by its recent conduct in Parliament, suggesting internal consequences could follow.

“Poor polling and the conduct in Parliament could very well cost Pringle his leadership,” he said.

The comments come as campaigning intensifies ahead of an anticipated general election, with both major parties positioning themselves for a closely watched contest.