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Labour loses power in Wales for first time since devolution in 1999
Plaid Cymru won the most seats in the Welsh local elections, taking 43 of 96 seats, with Reform UK on 34 and Labour on 9. Eluned Morgan, Labour's Welsh leader, lost her seat and announced she would step down. Plaid Cymru’s Rhun ap Iorwerth said the result signaled a desire for change in Wales.
Why It Matters
The result ends Labour's long-standing dominance in Welsh politics since devolution and could lead to a Plaid Cymru-led government in Wales. It also follows broader Labour setbacks in England and Scotland reported the day before.
Timeline
4 Events
BBC reports results confirming Plaid Cymru lead and Labour loss in Wales
May 9, 2026
BBC reported that Plaid Cymru won the most seats in the Welsh local elections held on May 8, 2026, with 43 seats; Reform UK 34; Labour 9, marking Labour's loss of power in Wales.
Eluned Morgan loses her seat and steps down as Welsh Labour leader
May 8, 2026
Eluned Morgan, the Welsh Labour leader, lost her seat and announced she would stand down from the role, becoming the first head of a UK government to lose a seat while in office.
Plaid Cymru wins most seats in Welsh local elections; Labour finishes third
May 8, 2026
With all 96 seats declared, Plaid Cymru won 43 seats, Reform UK 34, and Labour 9.
Labour suffers losses in England and Scotland local elections
May 7, 2026
Labour performed poorly in local elections held in England and Scotland on May 7, 2026.