Plaid Cymru has achieved notable success in the recent general election, securing four seats in Wales out of 32 and increasing their share of the Welsh vote to 14.8%, a 4.9% rise compared to the 2019 general election. Despite the reduction of electoral constituencies from 40 to 32, Plaid Cymru managed to maintain its representation, re-electing two sitting MPs in the newly formed constituencies of Dwyfor Meirionydd and Ceredigion and Preseli, and winning in Ynys Môn and Caerfyrddin.

Challenges and Achievements

General elections pose unique challenges for parties like Plaid Cymru, which campaign only in specific regions of the UK. The electoral system typically favours UK-wide parties, making it difficult for smaller parties to play a significant role in forming the UK government. Convincing voters of the importance of Plaid Cymru’s presence in the UK parliament remains a tough task amidst campaigns dominated by national themes and major political parties.

Internally, Plaid Cymru faced difficulties, including a period marked by a report on a culture of sexual harassment, bullying, and misogyny within the party, leading to the resignation of former leader Adam Price. The recent election under new leader Rhun ap Iorwerth was the first test of the party’s efforts to address these issues.

Campaign Strategy

Plaid Cymru’s election campaign did not heavily emphasise Welsh independence, focusing instead on criticisms of the main political parties’ lack of ambition for Wales and calling for a fair funding settlement to improve public services and the economy. This strategy targeted disillusioned voters with the Conservative government in Westminster and positioned Plaid Cymru against a Labour Party that has governed Wales since 1999 and is expected to form the next UK government.

Looking Ahead to 2026 Senedd Elections

The general election results have set the stage for the 2026 Senedd elections, where Plaid Cymru aims to lead the next Welsh government. These elections will likely focus on Welsh Labour’s track record on public services and economic growth. With a Labour government in Westminster, Plaid Cymru will emphasise claims that Labour is failing Wales at all levels of government.

The leadership of Rhun ap Iorwerth has been instrumental in Plaid Cymru’s recent success, with polling suggesting positive public opinion of his role. The adoption of a new proportional electoral system for the next Senedd election and the increasing unpopularity of Labour First Minister Vaughan Gething enhance Plaid Cymru’s prospects.

Future Challenges

Plaid Cymru faces the challenge of maintaining its profile and momentum leading up to 2026. The party must balance its long-term ambition for Welsh independence with a credible program to address immediate challenges. Additionally, it needs a modern, sophisticated campaign strategy to garner votes beyond its heartlands under the new electoral system.

The success in the general election has provided Plaid Cymru with momentum, and its response to upcoming opportunities will be crucial in determining its future growth and impact on Welsh politics.