Scottish Labour win pivotal Holyrood byelection, beating incumbent SNP and surging Reform UK

Scottish Labour celebrated a stunning victory in the Holyrood byelection, defeating SNP and Reform UK amid personal attacks on leader Anas Sarwar. Despite initial expectations of Nationalists securing the seat, Labour emerged second with 8,559 votes, narrowly beating SNP's Katy Loudon (7,957) and trailing only Reform UK’s Ross Lambie at 7,888. The victory was attributed to targeted campaigns and a robust voter response, despite criticism over accusations of racism. Scottish Labour expressed relief, while Reform UK appeared pleased with their performance. The result marks a significant shift in Scotland's political landscape ahead of upcoming elections.