Sarah Cooper-Lesadd defects from Reform UK to join Plaid Cymru

Sarah Cooper-Lesadd, a Member of the Senedd representing Pen-y-bont Bro Morgannwg, has defected from Reform UK to join Plaid Cymru. The move, approved by Plaid’s Senedd group and national executive, increases Plaid Cymru’s membership to 44, while leaving Reform UK with 33 seats.

Cooper-Lesadd, a former Conservative, stated that Reform UK has ‘no interest in Wales’ and is primarily focused on serving as a staging post for Nigel Farage’s ambitions in Westminster. She criticized the party for prioritizing headlines and division over finding solutions for Wales. She also cited a lack of internal discipline regarding accusations of racism against fellow MS Joe Martin as a reason for her departure.

Reform UK Wales indicated they had planned to expel her for her support of Welsh independence. The defection coincides with the resignation of Reform’s Senedd leader, Dan Thomas. Plaid Cymru’s Marc Jones noted that while the move might surprise some members who campaigned against Reform in May, it reflects the party's ability to attract individuals from diverse backgrounds.