The first poll of 2026 suggests the SNP remains firmly in the lead in the race for Holyrood, with Westminster parties trailing behind and competing for second place.
Polling carried out for True North by Survation shows Scottish National Party on 34 per cent, ahead of Reform UK on 19 per cent and Labour Party on 16 per cent.
The findings place the SNP well ahead as the Holyrood election campaign begins to take shape in the early months of 2026.
The poll also indicates that John Swinney remains the most popular political leader in Scotland, strengthening his position as the campaign moves towards May.
By contrast, the approval rating of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has slumped to minus 46 per cent in Scotland.
The polling also shows Anas Sarwar as the most unpopular party leader north of the border by a significant margin.
The figures underline growing volatility in the Scottish political landscape, with Westminster based parties struggling to gain traction as voters assess leadership, delivery, and direction.
The SNP has argued that the results reflect public confidence in its leadership and priorities at a time of economic pressure and ongoing constitutional debate.
Commenting on the poll, SNP MSP George Adam said:
“The poll shows that people in Scotland are putting faith in the SNP as the only party which offers trusted leadership and puts their priorities first while support for Westminster parties flounders.
“It’s no surprise that voters have lost faith in a Labour party which has consistently let Scotland down with nothing but broken promises since coming to power.
“Even Labour’s own MPs appear to have lost faith in their own Prime Minister.”
Adam contrasted that with the Scottish Government’s recent budget under Swinney’s leadership.
“In contrast, under John Swinney’s leadership, the SNP has this week delivered a budget which delivers on the people of Scotland’s priorities with record investment in our NHS and the expansion of the best cost of living support in the UK.
“Ahead of the election in May, the SNP will make the case that Scotland’s energy should be in Scotland’s hands so that we can make choices to lower bills and benefit communities.”
Adam said independence remained central to that argument.
“Scotland deserves a fresh start with independence to escape Westminster parties which treat us as nothing more than an afterthought.”
“That is the positive case the SNP will be taking to Scottish voters ahead of May.”
The poll sets the tone for a campaign likely to be dominated by leadership, economic credibility, and the constitutional future of Scotland.
