Scotland’s political landscape is poised for a shake-up, and the upcoming by-election in Hamilton, Larkhall, and Stonehouse could be the first tremor. This crucial contest pits the Scottish National Party (SNP), Labour, and Reform UK against each other in a battle for a seat long held by the SNP.

The by-election was triggered by the sad passing of veteran MSP Christina McKelvie, who held the seat since its creation in 2011. Her commanding victory in the 2021 Holyrood election, with a 4,582-vote lead and 46.2% of the vote share over Labour, is a significant benchmark. However, Labour’s notable 4.1-point increase in vote share signals a potential shift in voter sentiment.

This contest is more than just a local race; it’s a potential preview of the 2026 Holyrood elections. Will Labour’s recent gains translate into a victory, snatching the seat from the SNP? Or will the SNP maintain its stronghold? The results will offer invaluable insights into the evolving political allegiances across Scotland and provide a fascinating glimpse into the future of Scottish politics.