Stephen Flynn Announces Bid for Holyrood MSP

SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn announced his intention to run for the 2026 Holyrood election while retaining his role as MP for Aberdeen South, prompting significant internal backlash from party members who deemed his decision 'disrespectful' and 'arrogant.' Despite the internal criticism and a party rule change in 2020 that required MPs to resign to contest for Holyrood, Flynn argued that he would not take a second salary and compared his situation to past leaders like John Swinney and Alex Salmond. He emphasized his commitment to addressing key issues facing Scotland and contributing to the case for independence. Flynn's decision places him in contention with current MSP Audrey Nicoll for party nomination, a situation he described as uncomfortable but necessary. He has expressed confidence in the current leadership of John Swinney and dismissed speculation about his ambitions for party leadership in the near future. The SNP's National Executive Committee will ultimately determine the rules for the upcoming elections, which may allow Flynn's dual candidacy.