In a significant political shift, Julie MacDougall, a councillor representing Burntisland, Kinghorn, and Western Kirkcaldy, has left Scottish Labour to join Reform UK. This decision is seen as a boost for the party led by Nigel Farage, as MacDougall becomes the sixteenth defector to Reform in Scotland. Her departure follows her previous resignation from Scottish Labour last year, when she was barred from standing in the general election—a move that led to Melanie Ward being selected to contest for the party in her constituency, ultimately leading to Ward's victory over both the SNP and Alba's Neale Hanvey.
MacDougall, whose father John MacDougall previously served as the Labour MP for Glenrothes, has expressed her enthusiasm for joining Reform UK. She stated her desire for a more authentic and mature political approach, emphasizing her commitment to serving the people of Fife with integrity. Highlighting her views on the current state of Scotland, she asserted, “Scotland is broken. Scotland needs Reform.”
Her defection comes on the heels of other notable changes within the political landscape, such as Jamie McGuire's recent switch to Reform UK prior to the upcoming Scottish parliamentary elections set for May 7. Thomas Kerr, a fellow Reform councillor, warmly welcomed MacDougall into the party, commending her dedication and reputation as a passionate advocate for the people of Fife. He underscored Reform UK's goal of enacting substantial changes in Scotland, particularly as they gear up for what is anticipated to be a pivotal election.
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