Kate Forbes is the preferred candidate for the next SNP leader and first minister among Scottish voters, a poll has suggested. The research, conducted this week, put Ms Forbes ahead of her rivals despite the first days of her campaign being rocked by criticism over her views on social issues. As well as Ms Forbes, the Finance Secretary, Health Secretary Humza Yousaf and former minister Ash Regan are bidding to become the next SNP leader and first minister. Just hours after announcing her bid for the leadership, Ms Forbes told the media she would not have voted for equal marriage if she had been in parliament at the time. Among SNP voters, the Panelbase poll put Ms Forbes in the lead for preference to be first minister at 20%, with Mr Yousaf on 18% and Ms Regan on 9%.

Source: Forbes February 26, 2023 23:06 UTC