Reform UK pledged to “throw everything” to win the Caerphilly constituency but Nigel Farage’s party was shafted at the by-election in south Wales on Thursday
Reform UK has been dealt a blow last night as the party failed to win the Caerphilly constituency — despite “throwing everything” at it.
Nigel Farage’s party was determined to gain its second Welsh Parliament seat but Plaid Cymru emerged victorious with a majority of 3,848 votes. Plaid said the community had spoken “loud and clear” and chosen “hope over division”.
It expressed its intention to enter government in Wales next year, following the win which ends Labour’s lengthy hold of the seat, a run that began when the Senedd was first established in 1999.
But, like Reform UK, the Tories had a disappointing night in Caerphilly as its candidate, Gareth Potter, received just 690 votes. Rhun ap Iorwerth, leader of Plaid Cymru, said: “Tonight, the people of Caerphilly have spoken loud and clear. They’ve chosen hope over division, and progress over the tired status quo, and backed Plaid Cymru’s positive, pro-Wales vision.
“Lindsay Whittle is a tireless local champion who knows every community in this constituency inside out and will deliver real change for the people of Caerphilly.”
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Mr Ap Iorwerth continued: “This result shows that Plaid is no longer just an alternative. We are now the real choice for Wales, the only party able to stop billionaire-backed Reform and offering a better future that works for everyone. The message from Caerphilly is clear: Wales is ready for new leadership, and Plaid Cymru is leading the way.”
Born in the town, Mr Whittle, who previously represented the South Wales East region from 2011 to 2016, is an experienced politician and had two stints as leader of Caerphilly County Borough Council, the latter ending in May 2011.
In his victory speech, Mr Whittle paid tribute to Hefin Wyn David, who had served as Member of the Senedd for Caerphilly since 2016, and died in August.
Mr Whittle said: “I want to thank everyone who put their trust in me and Plaid Cymru to represent Caerphilly. It will be my honour to serve you as your new member of the Senedd.
“I’m ready to get to work straight away by making sure our local schools are properly supported, our libraries stay open, our GPs see people when they need to, and that everyone in Caerphilly gets the same chance to do well.
“I’ve spent my whole life fighting for this community, and I won’t stop now. Tonight’s result shows what’s possible when people come together to back practical solutions and protect what matters most.
“We’ve beaten billionaire-backed Reform and, with the same determination, we can do it again in May 2026. Caerphilly has shown the way – now Wales must follow.”