Labour's Surprise Win in Hamilton By-Election Signals Shift in Scottish Politics
Labour's Davy Russell wins Hamilton by-election, marking a significant shift in Scottish politics with Reform UK achieving its best result in Scotland.
Overview
In a surprising turn of events, Labour's Davy Russell won the Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse by-election, defeating the SNP and marking a potential shift in Scottish politics. Reform UK finished a close third, achieving its best-ever result in Scotland with 26% of the vote. This outcome raises questions for the SNP, which has been in power for 18 years, and suggests a growing discontent among voters. Labour leader Anas Sarwar emphasized the need for change, while Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice expressed delight at their performance, indicating a competitive landscape ahead of the 2026 elections.
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Analysis
Left
The articles celebrate Scottish Labour's unexpected byelection victory, indicating a significant shift in public sentiment against the SNP.
Anas Sarwar's remarks reflect optimism for Labour's future, suggesting the SNP's influence is waning in Scotland.
The positive tone highlights Labour's successful ground campaign and the challenges posed by Reform UK to the SNP.
Center
The article highlights Labour's unexpected win in the Hamilton by-election, showcasing a shift in voter preferences.
Reform UK made significant progress, indicating a growing support base that could impact future elections.
Challenges faced by the SNP and Conservatives suggest a changing political landscape in the region.
Right
The article highlights Labour's unexpected by-election victory in Hamilton, signaling a potential shift in Scottish politics.
It emphasizes optimism for Labour's future, particularly under Anas Sarwar's leadership.
The sentiment reflects a broader desire for change among Scottish voters.
Left
The articles celebrate Scottish Labour's unexpected byelection victory, indicating a significant shift in public sentiment against the SNP.
Anas Sarwar's remarks reflect optimism for Labour's future, suggesting the SNP's influence is waning in Scotland.
The positive tone highlights Labour's successful ground campaign and the challenges posed by Reform UK to the SNP.
Center
The article highlights Labour's unexpected win in the Hamilton by-election, showcasing a shift in voter preferences.
Reform UK made significant progress, indicating a growing support base that could impact future elections.
Challenges faced by the SNP and Conservatives suggest a changing political landscape in the region.
Right
The article highlights Labour's unexpected by-election victory in Hamilton, signaling a potential shift in Scottish politics.
It emphasizes optimism for Labour's future, particularly under Anas Sarwar's leadership.
The sentiment reflects a broader desire for change among Scottish voters.
Articles (4)
The Guardian·9d·"…The byelection has proven beyond any doubt that if you want to get rid of the SNP, then the election next year is a straight choice between me and John Swinney."
The Guardian·9d·"…The byelection result proved to people across Scotland that only Scottish Labour could beat the SNP in 2026."
BBC News·10d·"…The other big winner was Reform UK who finished third behind the SNP, recording their best ever parliamentary election result in Scotland with a 26% share of the vote."
Epoch Times·9d·"…The win comes against the backdrop of national polls which place Scottish Labour in third place behind the SNP and Reform UK, and will undoubtedly give a boost to Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar’s bid to become first minister in next year’s election."