Elections are the foundation of any Democratic society. Free and fair, it’s a chance for everyone to have their say in who represents them. Last week those who live in Glenrothes Central & Thornton had the chance to exercise that democratic right.
I am absolutely delighted that Lynda Holton was elected with a fantastic share of the vote; more than double the SNP’s closest rivals on first preferences. While the seat was held by Councillor Ross Vettraino for many years, in Politics nothing is ever certain.
The Glenrothes by-election result is a fantastic victory for the SNP, marking our 5th by-election win in a row. Undoubtedly, these results locally highlight a notable resurgence in support for the Scottish National Party. It was very clear to me from the doorsteps just how disappointed and angry people are with the Labour Party in Government, with many voters feeling a sense of disconnect and betrayal. Whether that was about cutting the Winter Fuel Payment, refusing to lift the two-child cap, increasing national insurance payments or damaging cuts to welfare benefits, it appears that Labour have lost touch with what matters most. Here in Fife, the Labour-run Council has imposed an 8.2% council tax hike, increasing bills for low-income families during a cost-of-living crisis, despite a record settlement from the Scottish Government.
First Minister, John Swinney MSP, joined us on the doorsteps in Woodside recently to speak to local residents directly about the SNP’s approach in Government. We’re working hard to mitigate austerity, restoring the winter heating payment, stopping the cruel bedroom tax and by investing in the Scottish Child Payment which is lifting thousands out of poverty. I was also pleased to visit a number of Woodside businesses with Lynda to listen to local concerns, including the need for improvements to parks and local services– which I know Lynda will fight for in Fife House.
Needless to say, Lynda will be a fantastic addition to the SNP council group in Fife Council. I know she will work tirelessly advocate on behalf of her constituents will stand up against Labour’s austerity agenda.
A sense of positivity and momentum is firmly with the SNP ahead of the next by-election in Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse in June, and for the upcoming Scottish Parliamentary elections in 2026 which I am delighted to announce I will be standing for again as the SNP candidate for Mid Fife and Glenrothes. Scots know they deserve better; and it’s the SNP who will continue to work for a fairer Scotland, with the people of Scotland at its heart.
