PLAID CYMRU leader Rhun ap Iorwerth has said that 2026 could mark a turning point for Wales, describing it as a year of “hope and new leadership”.

Acknowledging the challenges facing people across Wales – including long NHS waiting times, rising living costs and economic inequality – Mr ap Iorwerth said his party offered the leadership the country needed after 27 years of Labour-led government.

The next Senedd election will be held on Thursday, May 7, 2026.

Plaid Cymru is currently polling ahead of Reform UK in Wales, according to recent surveys. Mr ap Iorwerth said the election would be a “two-horse race” between the two parties, presenting voters with what he described as a clear choice between “two futures”.

He said one option would take Wales “backwards”, while the other would focus on leadership that “stands up for Wales, brings people together and improves everyday life”.

Plaid Cymru’s stated priorities include reducing NHS waiting times, easing financial pressures on families through an expanded childcare offer, supporting Welsh businesses and local jobs, and building what the party describes as a fairer and more confident Wales.

Speaking at the start of the new year, Mr ap Iorwerth said: “A new year is a chance to look ahead with hope and optimism, and there is real reason to be hopeful because 2026 can be the year everything changes for the better for Wales.

“We all know things are not as good as they should be. It’s hard to see a doctor, bills are rising, and Wales is too often treated as an afterthought by Westminster. Across our country, people are ready for something new.

“On May 7, 2026, the people of Wales will have the chance to choose that new future.

“Labour has long given up on Wales. The choice is between politics that looks backwards and thrives on division, or leadership that stands up for Wales and brings people together.

“A Plaid Cymru government would focus on improving everyday life – getting the NHS back on track, easing pressure on families with a transformative childcare offer, backing Welsh businesses and local jobs, and building a fairer, more confident Wales.

“This new year can be the start of something better for Wales – a bold new chapter in our nation’s history. I look forward to speaking with people across Wales in the coming months and working hard to earn their trust.”