Kate Forbes steps down from Holyrood, announcing she will not seek re-election in 2026. The Deputy First Minister and SNP MSP for Skye, Lochaber, and Badenoch revealed her decision after months of balancing politics with raising her young daughter.
Forbes, who became Scotland’s first female finance secretary in 2020, stated that family life took priority. Her daughter recently turned three, and Forbes emphasized she did not want to miss more precious early years. She will continue serving as an MSP for the next nine months until the election.
First elected in 2016, Forbes quickly rose through the ranks. She narrowly lost the SNP leadership race to Humza Yousaf in 2023 but returned as John Swinney’s deputy in May 2024. Despite her influential role, the challenges of commuting and childcare influenced her choice.
Traveling from the Highlands to Edinburgh took up to five hours each way. Forbes also highlighted inadequate childcare support for MSPs. She said, “I want to focus on my family, and this job demands total commitment.”
First Minister John Swinney expressed regret over her departure. He acknowledged her “invaluable contribution” over the past decade. Swinney added that he respected her decision, though he wished she would stay. Forbes assured she remains fully supportive of Swinney’s leadership. She also pledged to campaign for the SNP in the upcoming election.
Opposition parties responded with mixed sentiments. Scottish Conservative MSP Meghan Gallacher understood Forbes’ reasons but called her exit a “hammer blow” to Swinney. Scottish Labour’s Jackie Baillie wished her well but criticized the SNP’s declining influence.
Meanwhile, LibDem MP Angus MacDonald thanked Forbes but accused the SNP of neglecting the Highlands. Over 20 SNP MSPs have now announced they will not seek re-election. Political analysts view Forbes’ departure as a significant loss. Her sharp intellect and policy expertise stood out in Holyrood. However, the demands of remote representation and family life proved too great.
Kate Forbes steps down from Holyrood, leaving a notable gap in Scottish politics. Her focus now shifts to parenting, marking the end of a remarkable decade in public service. Kate Forbes steps down from Holyrood, but her impact on Scotland’s political landscape will endure.
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