The 2026 local elections represent the most significant electoral test for Sir Keir Starmer since the last general election two years ago. Although widely predicted to be a disaster for the Prime Minister, early indications suggest Labour might not have as bad a night as initially feared. However, the worst may still be ahead when Wales announces its results, as the party is expected to lose control of the country for the first time since devolution.
Reform UK Emerges as Big Winner
Reform UK has quickly established itself as the big winner of the election, picking up hundreds of council seats across England. Nigel Farage’s party is also likely to make major inroads at Holyrood and the Senedd, where polls suggest it could finish in the top two for both parliaments.
London Boroughs and County Councils
Every borough in London is up for grabs in the election, and Labour and the Conservatives will be nervously watching to see if Reform or the Green Party can wrest control anywhere. Six county councils in East Anglia and the south of England will also be declaring their results later. The first of the six mayoral results for different parts of London are still pending.
Wales and Scotland Results
The Senedd could host the most dramatic result of the May 7 elections, with Labour likely to lose control in Wales. Seats will begin to be declared later this morning. For the Scottish Parliament, results will take longer to emerge as there is no overnight count, with declarations expected later in the morning.
Looking Ahead
As the results unfold, all eyes will be on how Reform UK's performance reshapes the political landscape, and whether Labour can hold onto its strongholds in Wales and Scotland. The coming hours will be crucial for determining the future direction of UK politics.
