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2mo ago

Labour Clinches Hamilton Seat as SNP Share Collapses and Reform Surges

The result marks a turnaround for Scottish Labour, signalling a three-way contest ahead of next year’s Holyrood election.

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Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar hugs Jackie Ballie after Davy Russell, Scottish Labour candidate won the by-election
Scottish Labour Party’s Davy Russell (centre, right) celebrates with leader Anas Sarwar (centre) and deputy leader Jackie Baillie (left, centre) after being declared winner for the Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse by-election

Overview

  • Davy Russell secured 8,559 votes (31.6%) to beat SNP candidate Katy Loudon (7,957 votes, 29.4%) and Reform UK’s Ross Lambie (7,088 votes, 26.1%).
  • Labour credited its victory to a sophisticated ground operation and Russell’s strong local connections in South Lanarkshire.
  • The SNP’s vote share slumped from 46.2% in 2021 to 29.4%, reflecting voter discontent with its management of public services.
  • Reform UK achieved a breakthrough with 26.1% of the vote despite backlash over a campaign ad accused of racism towards Anas Sarwar.
  • The 44.2% turnout underlines strong local engagement and sets the stage for a tight three-way battle in 2026.