Sarah Cooper-Lesadd, a Senedd member elected for Reform, has left the party to join Plaid Cymru, citing chaos within Reform as a key reason for her departure. She expressed support for Welsh independence and revealed her previous vote for Remain in the Brexit referendum. Cooper-Lesadd's shift marks her third political affiliation since 2024.
Her defection follows the resignation of Reform's leader, Dan Thomas, after his arrest on assault charges. Cooper-Lesadd criticized the party's narrowing values and highlighted her commitment to her constituents despite the change in party affiliation.
Watch for potential shifts in voter sentiment in Pen-y-bont Bro Morgannwg as Cooper-Lesadd's move may influence local support for Plaid Cymru. Her stance on Welsh independence could energize discussions around self-determination, especially with upcoming elections on the horizon.