ST. JOHN’S — After a tough, see-saw battle between Newfoundland and Labrador’s two main political parties, the Progressive Conservatives appeared to be holding a lead over the governing Liberals on Tuesday night, getting the Tories very close to a surprise majority win.

Two hours after the polls closed, the Tories were leading or elected in 21 ridings, with the Liberals leading or elected in 15. A total of 21 seats is needed for a majority in the 40-seat house. The New Democrats were expected to pick up two seats; two Independents were also elected.

The autumn election campaign largely focused on a proposed multibillion-dollar energy deal with Quebec, but the Tory surge indicated that their focus on pocketbook issues struck a chord with voters.

Liberal Premier John Hogan, a 47-year-old

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