Story perspectives

Helen Jenner Elected Reform UK Senedd Leader

By Drooid · Sep 21, 2026, 10:00 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Helen Jenner was elected Reform UK’s Senedd leader succeeding Dan Thomas.
Dan Thomas resigned following his 13 September arrest on suspicion of assault and controlling behaviour.
Jenner a fluent Welsh speaker and former deputy leader narrowly beat Jason O’Connell in a poll of 33 Senedd members.
Reform UK now the Senedd’s second-largest party with 34 members remains the largest opposition group in Welsh history.

History

Historical Context

The first Welsh devolved election on 6 May 1999, after the 1997 referendum, filled 60 seats; Labour won 28 and Plaid Cymru 17, becoming the Assembly’s inaugural official opposition while Rhodri Morgan led a minority government. Voter turnout was 46.3%. Plaid’s seat total remained the record until the 2026 Senedd election expanded the chamber.

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Story summary

Helen Jenner was elected Reform UK’s Senedd leader succeeding Dan Thomas.
Dan Thomas resigned following his 13 September arrest on suspicion of assault and controlling behaviour.
Jenner a fluent Welsh speaker and former deputy leader narrowly beat Jason O’Connell in a poll of 33 Senedd members.
Reform UK now the Senedd’s second-largest party with 34 members remains the largest opposition group in Welsh history.

1 / 2