UPDATE: Reform UK’s only Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP), Graham Simpson, has revealed that the party is considering a coalition with other political groups to remove the SNP from power after the upcoming May 2026 Holyrood elections. Simpson stated that it is “not beyond the realms of possibility” for Reform UK to secure around 20 MSPs, potentially making them the second-largest party in the Scottish Parliament.
As polling data indicates a significant shift in voter sentiment, Simpson emphasized that Reform UK could become a formidable force against the SNP, led by John Swinney. “There is a definite possibility we could get around 20 MSPs, maybe more,” he said, underscoring the consistency of recent opinion polls.
Simpson, who joined Reform UK after defecting from the Scottish Conservatives in August 2025, expressed that the election’s outcome will dictate whether his party can work with others, including his former colleagues, to challenge the SNP’s governance. “If people are going into this election seriously wanting the SNP out of government, then they have to think, how do we do that?” he urged.
He acknowledged the need for cooperation, stating, “The only way you do it is by working together. Reform are serious about getting the SNP out of government.”
Simpson criticized the Scottish Conservatives, labeling them as “largely irrelevant” in the current political landscape. He predicted they would “do badly” in the May election, implying they could lose the “vast majority” of their seats. However, he noted that the Conservatives would still need to be included in post-election discussions if they wish to form any coalition against the SNP.
In terms of policy, Simpson is actively working on Reform UK’s manifesto, focusing on key issues affecting Scotland, including health care, the cost of living, and immigration. “Health is going to be a big one. That’s what people are most bothered about in Scotland,” he asserted, aiming to create policies that genuinely resonate with voters.
Simpson also shared his personal satisfaction with his political transition, stating he is “so happy it is unbelievable” after leaving the Conservatives. “My wife says she has never seen me laugh so much in years,” he remarked, emphasizing that his decision was not solely about re-election prospects but rather a genuine desire for change.
With the Holyrood elections just months away, the dynamics in Scottish politics are shifting rapidly. Simpson’s statements indicate a determined effort by Reform UK to disrupt the current power structure, making this an election to watch closely. As the landscape evolves, the implications of a coalition could reshape the future of governance in Scotland.
Stay tuned for further updates as the May election approaches, and watch for how these developments will impact the political climate in Scotland.
