Reform UK Wins First Council By-Election Seat in Scotland
Reform UK has won its first council by-election in Scotland with David McLennan elected as councillor for the Whitburn and Blackburn ward in West Lothian.
McLennan secured 1,177 votes, which was 149 more than the SNP candidate, in a contest with a turnout of 22.2%.
This victory marked a gain from Scottish Labour, as the seat had previously been held by the Labour Party.
Reform UK's presence in Scotland has grown through defections, including that of former Conservative treasurer Lord Offord joining the party, signaling growing momentum.
David McLennan had previously contested the ward in November, finishing behind Labour winner David Russell.
Polling and commentary indicate rising support for Reform UK in Scotland, suggesting the party could challenge the SNP to become the second largest party in the Scottish Parliament in the 2025 Holyrood elections.
