SNP Needs 65 Seats for Majority as Scotland Counts 129 MSP Votes
Vote counting for Scotland’s parliamentary election starts at 9 am on May 8, with the SNP requiring 65 of 129 seats for a majority.
TL;DR
The Scottish National Party must win 65 of the 129 seats up for election to secure a majority in Holyrood, with vote counting beginning at 9 am on Friday, May 8.
Context
Voters will elect 73 MSPs directly in constituencies and another 56 through regional lists. Eight electoral regions divide Scotland, each returning seven list MSPs. This mixed system aims to balance local representation with proportional outcomes.
Key Facts
The Scottish Parliament has 129 seats in total. A party needs at least 65 seats to hold a majority. Officials will start counting ballots at 9 am on Friday, May 8.
What It Means
If the SNP reaches 65 seats, it can form a government without relying on other parties. Falling short would force the SNP to seek support from smaller parties or independents to pass legislation.
Analysts will watch the running seat total as each constituency declares to see if the SNP reaches the 65‑seat threshold.
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