Wales on the Brink of Transformation: Are Voters Ready for the Senedd Shake-Up?

As 2026 approaches, Wales stands on the edge of a monumental change with the Senedd elections promising to be a historical event—the increase of Members of the Senedd (MSs) from 60 to 96 is deemed a “once in a century change”. This election on May 7 introduces not only a larger parliament but also modifies constituencies and the voting system, creating new dynamics in Welsh politics. Polls indicate that Labour’s longstanding dominance may be challenged by Plaid Cymru and Reform, adding to the electoral stakes that could reshape governance in Wales.

Campaigners like Jess Blair from the Electoral Reform Society Cymru highlight the significant hurdle of ensuring that voter awareness matches the scale of these changes. Historically, voter turnout has struggled to surpass 50% in previous elections, attributed in part to a lack of clear communication regarding the electoral process. On the streets of Cardiff, many potential voters express confusion: one young mother admitted to not understanding the upcoming shifts, while other residents echoed her sentiments for more comprehensive information.

Yvonne Murphy, founder of The Democracy Box, emphasized the importance of political education, criticizing the rush to mobilize voters without adequate understanding of new systems. Meanwhile, preparations for the election are underway, with renovations costing £4.2 million to accommodate the additional MSs, which have faced scrutiny from critics like the Welsh Conservatives who label the expansion as unnecessary.

The election signifies the most significant reforms since devolution began in 1999, fundamentally restructuring the political landscape in Wales with a reduced number of constituencies now set to be represented by six MSs each. The urgency for voters to understand these changes is underscored by Elin Jones, the Senedd’s presiding officer, who recognizes the accountability of politicians to clearly articulate these transformations and their implications for Welsh governance. As Labour grapples with its diminishing hold in polls, the Senedd election this year urges public engagement and participation like never before, paving the way for a new epoch in Welsh politics.