2026 can be the year of hope and new leadership for Wales, Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth has said.

Recognising the challenges faced by people across Wales, from long NHS waits, rising living costs, and economic unfairness, the Plaid Cymru leader said that his party offered the leadership Wales needed after 27 years of Labour.

The Senedd (Welsh Parliament) general election will be held on 7 May 2026.

Plaid Cymru is currently leading the polls in Wales ahead of Reform UK.

Mr ap Iorwerth said the Senedd elections were a two horse race between Plaid Cymru and Reform UK and that voters faced a choice of two futures – one that would take Wales backwards or leadership that stands up for Wales, brings people together, and focuses on improving everyday life, with Plaid Cymru.

Plaid Cymru’s vision includes getting the NHS back on track, easing pressures on families through a transformative childcare offer, backing Welsh businesses and local jobs, and building a fairer, more confident Wales.

Rhun ap Iorwerth, Leader of Plaid Cymru, said: “A new year is a chance to look ahead with hope and optimism and this year 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 still treated as an afterthought by Westminster. Across our country, people are ready for something new.

“And on 7 May this year, the people of Wales will have the chance to choose that new future.

“Labour has long given up on Wales. It’s now a choice 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, exciting chapter in our nation’s history. I look forward to speaking with people across Wales in the coming months, having thousands of conversations, and working hard to earn their trust every step of the way.”