Russell Findlay, a seasoned investigative journalist, has been appointed as the leader of the Scottish Conservatives. His extensive background in crime reporting positions him uniquely within Scottish politics.
Findlay’s journalistic career spans nearly three decades, with significant contributions at the Sunday Mail, Scottish Sun, STV, and BBC. His expertise in investigative journalism, particularly in examining organised crime and the justice system in Scotland, has been widely recognised.
Transitioning into politics in 2020, Findlay initially joined the Scottish Conservatives as Director of Communications. By 2021, he had become the Scottish Conservative MSP for West Scotland and served as the party’s justice spokesperson.
In a notable development, Findlay was elected the leader of the Scottish Conservatives today, receiving 2,565 votes out of 4,155 party members, marking a 60% turnout. Emphasising the need for unity, he called for the party to come together as “one united team.”
He articulated a vision of rebuilding public trust, addressing the disillusionment felt by many Scots towards politicians. “I want to deliver the message to people across Scotland who do not feel that anyone represents them, who are scunnered by the divisiveness and fringe obsessions of the Scottish Parliament, who feel let down and failed by politicians of every single party, including ours, who think politicians are all the same. I feel that way – I get it, but I’m not the same,” Findlay asserted.
Findlay’s reputation is further underscored by his literary contributions. In 2008, he co-authored a book about a notorious Scottish drug dealer and subsequently wrote three other non-fiction titles. His personal resilience was highlighted in 2015 when he was targeted in an acid attack at his home; he later penned a book documenting this harrowing experience.
Russell Findlay’s ascent to the leadership of the Scottish Conservatives represents a significant shift, given his profound journalistic roots and recent entry into the political arena. His election as leader signals a forward-thinking approach aimed at bridging the disconnect between politicians and the public.