Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay has led his party to its worst ever Holyrood election result, securing only 12 seats and falling to fifth place in the Scottish Parliament.
Leadership and decline
The former journalist took charge of the party less than two years ago, following the resignation of Douglas Ross midway through the 2024 Westminster election campaign. At that time, Mr Findlay promised change, telling voters the party would “work hard” to regain their trust. However, his leadership has been overshadowed by the rise of Reform UK, which now holds joint second place at Holyrood, eclipsing the Scottish Tories.
Impact of Reform UK
One of Mr Findlay’s MSPs defected to Nigel Farage’s party in the previous parliament, and Reform UK’s surge has pushed the Scottish Conservatives to fifth place. Despite Mr Findlay’s repeated appeals to voters to back his party to prevent an SNP majority and avoid another independence referendum, the result was a historic low.
Background and personal story
Before entering Holyrood five years ago, Mr Findlay worked for the party and had a successful journalism career covering Scotland’s crime gangs. He was the victim of an acid attack while reporting, but managed to apprehend his assailant and detain him until police arrived. He later said his personal experience of the justice system led him into politics, declaring he was “scunnered by Scotland’s justice system and determined to give voice to crime victims as an MSP.”
Mr Findlay also expressed concern about Scotland under SNP rule, believing the party’s focus on independence harmed public services. After announcing his candidacy for Scottish Tory leader, Police Scotland warned him of a threat to his life from a “known criminal,” but he insisted he would not be deterred.
Future plans
During the election campaign, Mr Findlay stated he plans to lead his party at the 2031 Holyrood elections, saying: “I’m not planning to go anywhere. I’m the leader.”
