New MP Michael Shanks deals blow to Humza Yousaf's SNP

Labour has come out on top in a crucial Westminster by-election, trouncing Humza Yousaf's SNP. The victory of Michael Shanks, who won 58.4% of the vote share with 17,845 votes, dealt a hammer blow to the new First Minister. The result, which puts Labour 31 points ahead of the SNP, is likely to raise fears of a collapse for the Nats in the next General Election. This win marks a significant gain for Labour, as they secure the seat won by former SNP MP Margaret Ferrier in 2019, before she was removed for breaking Covid laws.

Victory puts Labour in a strong position against the SNP

Rutherglen and Hamilton West has elected Michael Shanks of the Labour Party as its new MP. Shanks received 17,845 votes, taking 58.4% of the vote share. In contrast, the SNP's Katy Loudon received 8,399 votes. These results place Labour firmly ahead with a 31-point lead over the SNP, who won the seat in 2019 with a vote share of 27.9%

The message from Rutherglen and Hamilton West: Time for change

In response to his victory, Michael Shanks expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him and promised to be a champion for the constituents. He emphasized that this win is just the beginning and that change is possible under the leadership of Anas Sarwar. Shanks also highlighted the relentless focus of Sir Keir Starmer in delivering for working people and providing an alternative to the Tory party. He claimed that now is the time for change and that Labour can kick the Tories out of Downing Street.

Sir Keir Starmer hails seismic result

Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer hailed the result as a seismic one and celebrated the message sent by the people of Rutherglen and Hamilton West. He expressed gratitude to those who voted for Labour and promised to work diligently to repay their trust. Sir Keir emphasized the desire for a government that's determined to deliver for working people and move away from the division and chaos caused by the SNP and Tory governments. He stated that Labour is firmly on the side of the people and will focus on their priorities.

Experts predict Labour's dominance if this swing continues

Polling expert Prof Sir John Curtice described the result as remarkably good for Labour and suggested that if this swing is replicated in the next General Election, Labour could become the dominant party in Scotland. This victory will be closely analyzed in the coming days, as it could indicate the number of seats Labour could gain from the Nats next year.

Lower turnout, but a significant loss for the SNP

The by-election in Rutherglen and Hamilton West had a total turnout of 37.19%, significantly lower than the 66.7% in the 2019 election. However, by-elections typically have lower turnouts. SNP MPs acknowledged the loss and attributed it to factors such as the previous MP's actions and general party difficulties. This defeat is a major blow for First Minister Humza Yousaf, who had been featured on the front cover of Time magazine earlier in the day.

Labour's focus on change resonates with voters

Labour's victory in this by-election is seen as a result of their focus on delivering change and their ability to resonate with voters who are experiencing a cost of living crisis. The SNP's poll slump over the past year, as well as the head-to-head fight with Labour, contributed to their loss. The outcome of this by-election will be closely watched to gauge Labour's performance in Nats' seats in the upcoming General Election.