Published on April 1, 2026
The upcoming Senedd election in Wales will introduce a significant change to the voting system, prompting many to seek clarity on how it will operate. As part of ongoing efforts to enhance democratic participation and representation, these changes aim to streamline the voting process and encourage greater voter turnout.
Under the new system, voters will now have two votes instead of one. The first vote will be for a candidate in a specific constituency, while the second vote will be for a political party on a regional list. This dual-vote approach is designed to ensure that both individual representatives and party preferences are fairly reflected in the Senedd.
To facilitate this new voting method, the number of Members of the Senedd (MSs) will increase from 60 to 80. This expansion will allow for a more proportional representation in accordance with the population of the different regions of Wales. The 40 additional MSs will be elected through regional lists, which means that these representatives will be chosen from party lists rather than direct constituency elections.
One key aspect of the new voting process is the introduction of an open list system for the regional votes. Voters will be able to express their preference for individual candidates on the party lists rather than just voting for the party as a whole. This means that if a party secures seats in the Senedd, voters can help determine which specific candidates from that party will represent them.
Election officials are working to ensure that the transition to this new system is smooth. Voters will receive detailed information on how to cast their votes, and resources will be made available to familiarize them with the process. Educational campaigns are also expected to take place in the months leading up to the election, aimed at demystifying the new voting system.
Overall, the changes are expected to create a more representative and inclusive political landscape in Wales. As the country prepares for this shift, both voters and political parties will need to adapt to the new realities of the electoral process in the Senedd. With the election drawing nearer, individuals are encouraged to stay informed and engaged, ensuring their voices are heard in shaping the future of Welsh governance.