Voters in Aberdeen South go to the polls on Thursday in a high-stakes by-election that has put Kemi Badenoch on a war footing. The Conservative leader faces a direct challenge from the SNP, whose leader John Swinney urged residents to use their vote to condemn Westminster’s energy “rip off”.
Badenoch, who is expected to campaign heavily in the seat, sees the contest as a crucial test of her party’s appeal in Scotland. The by-election was triggered by the resignation of the previous MP, and both parties have poured resources into the battle.
“Aberdeen South votes Thursday in by-election as Badenoch and Swinney clash over energy and Tory fortunes.”
Swinney framed the vote as a referendum on energy policy, accusing the UK government of failing to protect households from soaring bills. “Vote SNP in by-election to condemn Westminster’s energy ‘rip off’,” he said, according to the Evening Standard.
The result will be closely watched as a bellwether for Conservative fortunes north of the border. Badenoch has made clear that Aberdeen South is a priority, with sources describing her as on a “war footing” for the campaign.
Polling stations opened early Thursday morning, with counting expected to conclude late tonight. Whoever wins will face the immediate challenge of representing a constituency hit hard by the cost-of-living crisis.