SNP Support Falls As Scandal Hits Sturgeon, But Challengers Far Behind

Support for the governing pro-independence Scottish National Party (SNP) has declined according to the latest IpsosMORI opinion poll, while personal approval ratings for First Minister Nicola Sturgeon have also taken a hit.

• Scottish parliament voting intention(s):
  • Constituency: SNP: 52% (-3), CON: 23% (+1), LAB: 15% (+1), LDEM: 5% (-1), GRN: 3% (+2)
  • List: SNP: 47% (-), CON: 22% (-), LAB: 14% (-2), GRN: 8% (+1), LDEM: 6% (-). via @IpsosMORI, 15 - 21 Feb. Chgs. w/ 20-26 Nov
• Approval ratings: Nicola Sturgeon (SNP): Satisfied: 64% (-8), Dissatisfied: 32% (+8). Douglas Ross (CON): Satisfied: 28% (+6), Dissatisfied: 40% (+1). Boris Johnson (CON): Satisfied: 26% (+7), Dissatisfied: 69% (-7). Keir Starmer (LAB): Satisfied: 38% (-6), Dissatisfied: 35% (+8). via @IpsosMORI. Chgs. w/ Oct
• The polls may cause a frisson of concern among the SNP given the sharp decline in approval for Sturgeon and increase for both the Conservative leader in Scotland, Douglas Ross, and UK PM Boris Johnson. However, Sturgeon remains by a considerable margin the most popular politician in Scotland, and the party remains on course for a majority in the 6 May Scottish Parliament elections.
• Former SNP leader Alex Salmond due to appear before committee tomorrow to testify on scandal engulfing the FM that stems from an alleged conspiracy against Salmond involving Sturgeon and officials close to her. Outcome of these hearings could have a marked effect on SNP leadership and the elections.