The candidates are confirmed, and now it's your turn

Stephen McNamara · 7 November 2026

Responding to: Full list of candidates announced for Cumnock and New Cumnock by-election (Cumnock Chronicle)

East Ayrshire Council has published the full list of candidates for the Cumnock and New Cumnock by election, and I'm proud to be on it as the Alliance for Democracy and Freedom candidate.

Seeing that list in black and white means a lot to me. Democracy is the backbone of power in this country. Councillors, councils and governments only have the power we lend them at the ballot box. That ballot box worth protecting, and it starts right here.

It matters to me that everyone in Cumnock and New Cumnock gets a real choice and a real chance to vote for the representation they want. A ballot paper with a range of names on it is a good thing. I respect everyone who has put their name forward, whatever their party or none. Standing for election isn't easy, and it's healthy for the community that people are willing to do it.

I also believe every voice matters, even if that voice stands alone. You don't have to agree with the crowd, or with the bigger parties, for your view to count. A by election is a chance for each of us to say what we think about how East Ayrshire is run and who should speak up for us in the council chamber.

So my ask is a simple one. Whoever you're thinking of voting for, please make sure you're registered and that you use your vote on Thursday 10 December. Talk to your neighbours about it too. Turnout at by elections can be low, and that means the people who do turn up have a bigger say.

Over the coming weeks I'll be listening to residents about what matters most to them, from local services to value for money from the council.

If you'd like to tell me what matters to you, or ask me anything, please get in touch through my website.