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Politics and Government
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Politics and Government
Source : (remove) : The Scotsman
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Kate Forbes Announces Decision to Stand Down from Scottish Parliament at Next Election, Citing Family Strain

In a significant development for Scottish politics, Kate Forbes, the SNP MSP and former Finance Secretary, has revealed her intention not to seek re-election in the 2026 Holyrood election. The announcement, made through a personal statement, highlights the intense personal toll that a high-profile political career has taken on her family life, particularly as a mother to a young child. Forbes, who has been a prominent figure in the Scottish National Party (SNP) and a key player in recent leadership contests, explained that the decision stems from the challenges of balancing the demanding nature of parliamentary duties with her responsibilities at home.

Forbes, representing the Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch constituency since 2016, has been one of the most recognizable faces in Scottish politics. Her rise to prominence was marked by her appointment as Finance Secretary in 2020 under then-First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. At just 29 years old at the time, she became one of the youngest cabinet members in the Scottish Government's history, overseeing critical economic policies during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her tenure was characterized by a focus on fiscal responsibility, economic recovery, and addressing Scotland's budget constraints amid ongoing debates over independence.

The decision to step back comes after a period of intense scrutiny and high-stakes involvement in SNP internal affairs. In 2023, Forbes launched a bid for the party leadership following Sturgeon's unexpected resignation. Her campaign was notable for its emphasis on economic competence and a return to core SNP values, but it also drew controversy due to her socially conservative views, particularly on issues like same-sex marriage, which stem from her Free Church of Scotland background. Despite a strong showing, she narrowly lost to Humza Yousaf in a closely fought contest. Under Yousaf's short-lived administration, Forbes chose not to join the cabinet, citing differences in approach, but she later returned to government as Deputy First Minister under John Swinney, who succeeded Yousaf in 2024.

In her statement, Forbes elaborated on the personal factors influencing her choice. She described the "immense privilege" of serving her constituents and contributing to Scotland's political landscape but underscored the "enormous strain" that the role places on family life. With a daughter born in 2022, Forbes highlighted the difficulties of managing long hours, frequent travel between her Highland constituency and Edinburgh, and the relentless public spotlight. "Politics demands everything from you," she said, "and while I've given it my all, I now realize that my family needs more of me than this life allows." She emphasized that this is not a rejection of public service but a necessary pivot to prioritize her role as a parent. Forbes also touched on the broader challenges faced by women in politics, noting how the system's structure often exacerbates work-life imbalances, especially for those with young children.

This announcement adds to a growing list of high-profile departures from the SNP, reflecting a period of transition and introspection for the party. The SNP has faced electoral setbacks, including losses in the 2024 general election, where it saw its Westminster representation significantly reduced. Forbes' exit could impact the party's dynamics in the Highlands, a region where she has built a strong local following through her advocacy on rural issues such as broadband access, housing, and economic development. Her constituency, one of the largest geographically in Scotland, encompasses diverse communities from the Isle of Skye to the Cairngorms, and she has been vocal about the unique challenges of representing remote areas.

Reactions to Forbes' decision have been swift and varied. SNP leader and First Minister John Swinney praised her contributions, calling her a "formidable talent" whose economic expertise has been invaluable to the government. "Kate has served Scotland with distinction, and while we respect her decision, her voice will be missed in Holyrood," Swinney stated. Other colleagues echoed this sentiment, with some highlighting her role in stabilizing the party's finances during turbulent times. Opposition figures, including Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross, acknowledged her principled stance, even as they critiqued SNP policies. "Kate Forbes brought a level of scrutiny to economic matters that was often lacking," Ross commented, while wishing her well in her future endeavors.

Beyond the immediate political implications, Forbes' departure raises questions about diversity and retention in Scottish politics. As a young woman from a rural background with strong Christian convictions, she represented a unique perspective within the SNP, which has traditionally drawn from urban, progressive bases. Her leadership campaign in 2023 exposed fault lines within the party on social issues, and her exit might signal a shift toward a more homogenized leadership pool. Analysts suggest this could affect the SNP's appeal in conservative-leaning rural seats, where Forbes' personal story resonated with voters.

Looking ahead, Forbes has not ruled out a continued involvement in public life. In her statement, she expressed a desire to contribute to Scotland's future in other capacities, potentially through advisory roles, writing, or community initiatives. "My passion for Scotland and its people hasn't diminished," she affirmed. "I look forward to finding new ways to serve." This openness leaves room for speculation about a possible return to frontline politics later, perhaps after her child is older, or even a shift to UK-wide roles if circumstances align.

The broader context of Scottish politics provides a backdrop to this personal decision. The 2026 Holyrood election is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for the SNP, which has dominated the parliament since 2007 but now faces challenges from Labour's resurgence and internal divisions over independence strategy. Forbes' absence from the ballot will deprive the party of one of its most articulate economic voices at a time when issues like public spending, taxation, and post-Brexit recovery are paramount. Her tenure as Finance Secretary included navigating the complexities of the Scottish Budget, advocating for sustainable growth, and pushing for reforms in areas like green energy and digital infrastructure—areas where her influence is likely to be felt long after her departure.

On a personal level, Forbes' story is emblematic of the sacrifices required in modern politics. She has spoken candidly about the isolation of being a young mother in a male-dominated field, the constant juggling of constituency work with family commitments, and the emotional weight of public criticism. In interviews, she has referenced the support of her husband, Ali, and her faith as anchors during challenging times. This decision, she insists, is about reclaiming balance, not retreating from her principles.

As Scotland reflects on Forbes' contributions, her legacy is likely to be defined by her blend of fiscal prudence and advocacy for underrepresented voices. From championing small businesses during the pandemic to challenging the status quo in party debates, she leaves behind a record of resilience and intellect. While the SNP must now look to fill the void in her constituency and within its ranks, Forbes' choice underscores a universal truth: even the most dedicated public servants must sometimes prioritize the personal over the political.

In summing up her time in office, Forbes quoted a proverb from her Highland roots: "The longest road out is the shortest road home." For her, that road now leads away from Holyrood, toward a future where family comes first. As the political world absorbs this news, it serves as a reminder of the human cost behind the headlines, prompting broader discussions on how to make politics more sustainable for all.

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Read the Full The Scotsman Article at:
[ https://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/kate-forbes-to-stand-down-at-next-years-scottish-parliament-election-over-strain-on-family-life-5255240 ]