Full Breakdown
Reform UK Appoints Dan Thomas as Leader in Wales Ahead of Senedd Elections
2/5/2026, 7:56:56 PM
New Leadership Announcement
Nigel Farage has announced the appointment of Dan Thomas as the new leader of Reform UK in Wales, a move aimed at strengthening the party's presence ahead of the upcoming Senedd elections on May 7. Thomas, a former Conservative leader of Barnet Council from 2019 to 2022, returned to Wales after a career in financial services in London. At a press conference in Newport, he expressed his commitment to addressing the lack of opportunities in Wales, stating, “For many Welshmen and women, good opportunities in Wales are few and far between.”
James Evans Defects to Reform UK
Alongside Thomas, James Evans, a Member of the Senedd for Brecon and Radnorshire, has defected from the Conservative Party to join Reform UK. Evans, who had been serving as an independent after losing the Conservative whip, criticized the current state of Welsh politics, declaring, “Britain is broken and Wales is broken also.” He emphasized the need for honesty in political discourse and warned against the influence of Plaid Cymru and the Green Party, which he believes could lead to the disintegration of the United Kingdom.
Criticism from Political Opponents
The leadership changes have drawn sharp criticism from Welsh Labour and Plaid Cymru. A Welsh Labour spokesperson accused Reform UK of being a refuge for disillusioned Conservatives, asserting that Thomas is merely a “puppet” for Farage. Rhun ap Iorwerth, leader of Plaid Cymru, labeled Thomas as Farage’s “lapdog,” suggesting that the party represents a recycling of Conservative politics rather than a genuine alternative for Welsh voters.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to the leadership announcement, Welsh Labour emphasized the party's belief that Reform UK is simply a rebranding of the Conservative Party. They stated, “You can’t trust their leader. You can’t trust their words.” Meanwhile, Evans defended his decision to join Reform UK, stating, “I saw a movement that has grown and starts where the other parties refuse to start, with the truth that Britain is broken.”
What's Next for Reform UK in Wales
As the Senedd elections approach, the emergence of Dan Thomas and James Evans as key figures in Reform UK presents a new dynamic in Welsh politics. Their challenge lies in solidifying support among voters who may be disillusioned with traditional parties. The upcoming election will test the effectiveness of their message and the party's ability to resonate with the Welsh electorate.
Verbatim Quotes
- “But for many Welshmen and women, good opportunities in Wales are few and far between.” — Dan Thomas, Leader of Reform UK in Wales
- “He said: "Britain is broken and Wales is broken also.” — James Evans, Member of the Senedd
- “He said: “Two more ex-Tories defecting to Reform UK should come as no surprise to the people of Wales.” — Rhun ap Iorwerth, Leader of Plaid Cymru
