Nigel Farage has officially appointed Helen Jenner as the new leader of Reform UK in Wales, following the resignation of Dan Thomas, who stepped down after being arrested on suspicion of assault and controlling or coercive behaviour.
Why it matters: This leadership change comes at a turbulent time for Reform UK, with Thomas's departure raising questions about the party's stability and future direction in Welsh politics.
Helen Jenner was unveiled as the new leader on September 21, 2026, outside the Senedd in Cardiff, marking a new chapter for the party.
Jenner replaces Dan Thomas, who led Reform to become the second largest party in the Welsh Parliament during the May elections.
Thomas announced his resignation for personal reasons after being arrested, though he maintains he has done nothing wrong.
Driving the news: The announcement came after a leadership vote held among Reform's 33 Senedd members, where Jenner faced competition from Jason O'Connell.
Farage expressed sympathy for Thomas, stating it was untenable for him to continue as leader under the circumstances.
Jenner, who had was Thomas's deputy, was seen as the favorite to take over, having received backing from senior party figures.
Thomas's resignation followed a brief but impactful tenure, as he led the party to its best-ever election results.
State of play: With Jenner now at the helm, Reform UK aims to solidify its position as the largest opposition group in the Senedd.
Jenner's immediate challenge will be to maintain momentum following the party's electoral gains and navigate the fallout from Thomas's departure.
She stressed the need for the party to adapt and give members more say in policy decisions moving forward.
Farage confirmed there would be a vote for a new deputy leader to replace Jenner, highlighting the party's commitment to stability.
The big picture: Jenner's appointment reflects a broader strategy for Reform UK to strengthen its influence in Welsh politics.
As a fluent Welsh speaker and experienced campaigner, Jenner is expected to resonate with voters in her constituency of Bangor Conwy Môn.
Her background as a teacher and previous experience in politics positions her well to address education and language issues in Wales.
Farage emphasized that Reform UK must continue its mission to challenge the establishment and bring common sense to Cardiff Bay.
What they're saying: Reactions to Jenner's appointment have been mixed, illustrating the challenges ahead for Reform UK.
A Welsh Labour spokesperson criticized the party's stability, questioning its ability to deliver for constituents after recent leadership turmoil.
Plaid Cymru MS Rebeca Phillips dismissed Jenner's leadership, claiming it would not change the party's lack of genuine interest in Welsh issues.
In her first statements as leader, Jenner expressed her commitment to uniting the party and continuing its work in the Senedd.
By the numbers: The leadership transition highlights key statistics relevant to Reform UK's recent performance.
Under Thomas's leadership, Reform went from zero seats to 34 members, marking a historic achievement in Welsh political history.
The party became the second-largest group in the Senedd following the May 2026 elections, indicating a growing influence in Welsh politics.
Jenner was elected as a Member of the Senedd for Bangor Conwy Môn in May 2026, solidifying her political credentials.
Between the lines: The dynamics within Reform UK reveal underlying tensions and the need for a cohesive strategy moving forward.
Jenner's leadership comes at a time when the party is under scrutiny for its internal stability, especially after Thomas's abrupt departure.
Farage's continued support for Jenner signals a desire for continuity and a united front as the party navigates upcoming challenges.
Jenner acknowledged the difficulties faced by the party but expressed confidence in its direction and unity.
What's next: Looking ahead, several key developments are expected as Jenner takes charge.
A vote for a new deputy leader is scheduled for Tuesday, which will be a litmus test for Jenner's leadership and support within the party.
Jenner plans to implement changes that will empower party members and address their concerns about policy decisions.
As the largest opposition group, Reform UK will need to demonstrate its effectiveness in holding the Welsh Government accountable.