The popularity of Scotland’s First Minister, Humza Yousaf, has taken a significant hit among his party’s voters, according to a new poll conducted by research body Norstat. The study, which surveyed 1,086 Scots for the Sunday Times, revealed that Yousaf’s net popularity score plummeted to -7% among SNP voters who participated in the 2019 general election. This marks a stark contrast to his positive 14% approval rating in January.
The poll also showed a decline in the approval ratings of other political leaders in Scotland. Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross saw his net approval rating drop by 10 points to -38%, while Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s rating remained at -35%. Additionally, leaders of Labour north and south of the border experienced a substantial dip in popularity, with Sir Keir Starmer dropping 13 points to -25% and Anas Sarwar falling by 14 points to -17%.
In terms of Westminster voting intention in Scotland, Labour and the SNP were neck-and-neck at 32%, with both parties experiencing a slight decrease in support since the last poll. The SNP’s figure was the lowest recorded by Norstat since the 2014 referendum, leading polling expert Professor Sir John Curtice to project that the party would win 18 seats in the next election, well below their majority target for independence.
The poll also highlighted the potential impact of support for the Scottish Greens and the Alex Salmond-led Alba Party, which currently sit at 4% and 2% respectively. If these voters were to back the SNP, Curtice suggested that Yousaf could win 31 seats in the next election, compared to Labour’s 16.
In response to the poll results, Scottish Labour deputy leader Dame Jackie Baillie emphasized the need for change in Scotland, while Scottish Tory chairman Craig Hoy criticized the SNP for their internal conflicts and focus on independence.
Overall, the poll paints a picture of shifting political dynamics in Scotland, with Yousaf and other party leaders facing challenges in maintaining their popularity among voters.
