Donna Jones Selected as Conservative Candidate for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Mayoral Election

Donna Jones, the current Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, has been officially selected as the Conservative Party’s candidate for the new regional mayoral role set to be contested in May 2026.

The election will mark the first time voters across Hampshire, the Solent region, and the Isle of Wight will choose a directly elected mayor. The newly created post will hold significant powers over transport infrastructure, housing, skills and training, strategic planning, economic development, and environmental policy.

Reacting to her selection, Jones said:

“I’m delighted to announce that I have been selected as the Conservative candidate for Mayor of Hampshire and the Solent, including the Isle of Wight. Thank you to those who have put their trust in me. A special thank you to my amazing campaign team!”

Jones, who has served as Police and Crime Commissioner since 2021, said the new mayoral role offers an opportunity to bring substantial investment into the region. She believes a strong mayor can help boost jobs, improve public services, and deliver on key priorities such as transport and economic growth.

The Conservative hopeful will face a competitive race. Lorna Fielker, the former leader of Southampton City Council, has announced her candidacy for the Labour Party. Meanwhile, three contenders are vying for the Liberal Democrat nomination: Ben Dowling, a former Portsmouth councillor; Jack Davies, a New Forest district councillor; and Martin Tod, leader of Winchester City Council.

The creation of the new mayoral post comes as part of a wider devolution deal aimed at giving regions more control over local decision-making and investment priorities. The role is expected to mirror similar positions already established in other parts of England, such as Greater Manchester and the West Midlands.

The campaign is expected to focus on key local issues including public transport links, affordable housing, regional skills gaps, and environmental sustainability.