Counting has commenced in the Welsh Parliament election, with results anticipated throughout Friday. Early declarations are expected from early afternoon, with all outcomes likely concluded by the evening. This election introduces a significantly expanded Senedd, now comprising 96 members, and a new proportional voting system where seats are allocated based on each party's overall vote percentage.
Key Political Shifts
Labour has historically dominated Welsh politics for over a century, but recent opinion polls throughout the campaign indicated Plaid Cymru and Reform UK consistently leading, placing Labour in third position. Baroness Eluned Morgan, the First Minister and leader of Welsh Labour, expressed concerns about potentially losing her seat and urged constituents not to cast a 'protest vote' against UK Labour. Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth voiced ambitions to 'replace' Labour as the governing party, while Reform UK leader Nigel Farage characterised the election as a referendum on the Prime Minister's leadership.
Local Election Context
In parallel local elections, Labour lost control of seven councils as Reform UK made significant gains, indicating a broader shift in voter sentiment across Wales.
