Stephen Flynn bids to become MSP at 2026 Holyrood election but won’t quit Westminster job

Stephen Flynn, the SNP Westminster leader, has announced his bid to become an MSP at the 2026 Holyrood election. Despite his ambition to join the Scottish Parliament, Flynn has stated that he does not intend to resign from his current position as an MP. Flynn, who is considered a potential successor to John Swinney, must now work towards convincing SNP leaders to waive the rule prohibiting sitting MPs from standing as MSPs.

If successful in his nomination bid, Flynn will face a selection battle in the Aberdeen South constituency, which already has an SNP MSP, Audrey Nicoll. In a statement to the Press & Journal, Flynn shared his decision-making process, highlighting his eagerness to engage in upcoming challenges facing Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, and Scotland as a whole. When asked about his future aspirations within the party, Flynn expressed confidence in John Swinney’s leadership and the party’s direction, dismissing immediate thoughts of a leadership contest.

Flynn emphasised his commitment to supporting the SNP and the country, emphasising his willingness to contribute in any way possible. Although Flynn’s candidacy marks a significant step in his political career, the path to becoming an MSP while retaining his Westminster seat poses a unique challenge for the seasoned politician.

In a bid to secure the nomination for the Aberdeen South constituency in the 2026 Holyrood election, SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn has declared his ambition to become an MSP. Despite not planning to step down from his role as an MP, Flynn faces a selection contest in a constituency with an existing SNP MSP. Flynn’s decision-making process and aspirations within the party shed light on his dedication to serving Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, and Scotland as a whole.

My insights:
It’s intriguing to see a prominent political figure like Stephen Flynn navigate the complexities of running for a Scottish Parliament seat while maintaining his position in Westminster. His bid reflects his dedication to representing his constituents in different capacities and his determination to contribute to the political landscape at both levels of government. Flynn’s decision to pursue an MSP seat while balancing his responsibilities as an MP showcases the dynamic nature of political leadership and the challenges that come with straddling roles in multiple governing bodies.