What to expect at Holyrood and beyond as 2026 election race steps up
6 hours ago Share Save Glenn Campbell Scotland political editor Share Save
Getty Images John Swinney is looking to secure another SNP victory but his rivals believe a change of government is long overdue
Before the World Cup finals and the Commonwealth Games, 2026 brings an intense political contest in Scotland. This is a Holyrood election year that will either end or extend the SNP's nearly two decades in charge of the Scottish government. In recent months, the first minister John Swinney has seemed on course to secure a fifth term in power for his party. That would mean retaining control of key services like the NHS, education and policing.
He has highlighted some progress in reducing both NHS waiting times and child poverty since taking over as first minister.
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