Senedd election 2026: Wales goes to the polls – BBC

Polling stations have opened across Wales for voting in the Senedd election.
Members of the Senedd (MSs) will be elected across 16 constituencies using a new voting system as the number of politicians in Cardiff Bay increases from 60 to 96.
Six politicians will be elected to represent each constituency, split roughly according to the proportion of votes parties receive in the seat.
The polls close at 22:00 BST on Thursday with counting taking place during the day on Friday and full coverage of the results across BBC Wales online, television and radio.
Unlike Westminster elections, you do not need to bring ID or your polling card with you to vote.
This is the second Welsh parliamentary election allowing 16 and 17-year-olds to take part.
Another change at this election is that voters cast their ballot once, for a political party or independent candidate.
At previous Senedd elections there were two votes – one for a candidate and another one for a political party.
Elections are also taking place to the Scottish Parliament on Thursday, and local elections and mayoral contests are happening in some parts of England.
Election counting is under way. Find out the result where you live.
Millions have voted in parliamentary elections in Scotland and Wales, and local elections in England.
Photographer Ellen Cooper says there is "nothing more fun" than dogs going to vote.
Pictures of dogs at polling stations are now a part of election day – here are some of the best we have seen.
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