Politics / SNP confirms Goodlad will stand as election candidate
HANNAH Mary Goodlad has been confirmed as the SNP’s candidate for the 2026 Scottish Parliamentary election.
Shetland News reported in March that Goodlad had put herself forward to represent the party at the elections in May 2026, with the SNP likely to announce her as their candidate.
The SNP Shetland branch said tonight (Tuesday) it was “proud” to confirm Goodlad – who was born and raised in Shetland – would be running for the seat next year.
It comes just a week after the Liberal Democrats announced councillors Emma Macdonald and Moraig Lyall would be vying to represent the party at the Scottish elections.
Current MSP Beatrice Wishart has already stated she will not stand for re-election.
The local branch of the SNP said Goodlad brings with her a “strong local connection, a deep commitment to community values, and an ambitious and forward-looking vision for our islands”.
“With over a decade of experience across the energy industry – spanning oil, gas, and renewables, alongside a proud fishing family heritage and a creative, entrepreneurial drive as a founder of local business Haar Sauna, she is uniquely positioned to champion Shetland’s interests at Holyrood and ensure our island voices are heard and respected at the highest national level,” it added.
Speaking after her selection, Goodlad said it was “an honour” to represent the SNP at the next election.
“Shetland is the place that raised me, gave me an education and a fair start in life. I now want to take my experience and skills gained and give something back by serving our community through being your MSP,” she said.
“Shetland is a place of innovation, resilience, and strong community spirit. It’s also a place that means the world to me.
“And it’s with that backdrop that I am asking people to put their trust in me with their vote. I’m committed to standing up for our islands, making sure Shetland has a seat at the decision making table and ensuring that we have a firm say over our island’s future.”
Goodlad said she would now begin her campaign “in listening mode”, looking to hear “what matters most to people across our communities”.
“We’ll soon begin a series of conversations around the islands to understand what issues people want us to focus on,” she said.
“With a year to go until the election, we have the time to get this right – and I intend to use it to listen, reflect, and understand how I can best help.
“I am someone that will champion Shetland at every level – nationally and internationally. And I hope that people in Shetland put their trust in me to do just that.”
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