First candidate declares intention to stand in 2026 general election

Simon Williams hopes to secure a seat in Rushen

A Port Erin man has declared his intention to stand in the 2026 general election.

One year before people head to the polls, Simon Williams has announced he will stand as a candidate for the House of Keys in the parish of Rushen.

It's the first official declaration ahead of the election next September.

In a statement he said: "Over the next year, I look forward to meeting as many of you as possible, introducing myself properly, and listening to what matters most to our community.

"My hope is that, on 24 of September 2026, I will earn your trust and the chance to represent Rushen in the House of Keys.

"If given that opportunity, I promise to serve the people of Rushen — and the Isle of Man as a whole — to the very best of my ability."

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As it’s exactly a year until the General Election 2026, we want to know what you think the main issues are.

What do you want to see in the candidate manifestos – and if your MHKs decide to stand again would they get your vote?

Your thoughts will help shape Manx Radio’s election coverage over the next year – so tell us what you think and what information will help you make the all-important decisions this time next year.

You can fill out our short survey HERE.