22 September 2026
The SDLP has selected Linzi McLaren to contest South Antrim at the Northern Ireland Assembly election in May 2027.
McLaren, who is from Antrim and grew up in the area, described her selection as a “homecoming” — both in returning to her native constituency and in finding what she describes as her political home in the SDLP.
Linzi McLaren said:
“I am honoured to have been selected by the SDLP to represent South Antrim. I am a proud Antrim woman and I am excited about the campaign ahead, working together with the SDLP team in the area, particularly Roisin Lynch, whose leadership locally has been steadfast.
“South Antrim is an incredible place. From Antrim town, where my family have lived for generations, to the loughshore; Randalstown to Ballyclare; Mallusk to Glenavy and Crumlin, I am looking forward to getting out, meeting people, listening to their concerns and talking about the opportunities we can unlock for this area. The potential for delivery for the people of South Antrim is endless.
“At the heart of my decision to stand is a simple belief: politics should deliver for people. Unfortunately, in recent years there has been more decay and dither than delivery, but I believe the SDLP is offering a different kind of politics that puts hope, ambition and practical action over the sort of tribal politics that have dominated for far too long.
“Some people will understandably be interested in the political journey I have travelled, and what I would say to them is that my values have not changed, but my perspective has.
“I have always cared passionately about building a society that is fair, inclusive and ambitious for everyone who lives here, no matter their background. The SDLP is committed to working towards a New Ireland and persuading more people by demonstrating that we can deliver for them in the here and now.
“More and more people are thinking about the kind of future they want for themselves and their families. For some of us, the answer may be different from the one we grew up with. That should be something politics makes space for rather than fears.
“I will use my platform to champion issues that have always mattered deeply to me, including ending violence against women and girls, tackling educational disadvantage and ensuring that people across South Antrim get the public services and opportunities they deserve.”
Antrim Cllr Roisin Lynch said:
“I am delighted to have Linzi join our team and believe her voice will resonate with many people in South Antrim and beyond. I look forward to getting on the doors with her and providing a real and hopeful alternative to the politics of deadlock and dysfunction that has dominated for the past 20 years.”
SDLP Leader Claire Hanna MP said:
“I am delighted that Linzi has joined the team and is standing for the SDLP in South Antrim.
“The SDLP has always believed in persuasion. We want to build a New Ireland, but we know that means reaching beyond traditional political identities, listening to people whose experiences are different from our own and building a future in which everyone can see themselves.
“Linzi’s journey reflects conversations that are happening in homes and communities across Northern Ireland. People are questioning old assumptions and thinking about what kind of society they want to leave to the next generation.
“We want the SDLP to be a political home for people who believe that Northern Ireland can work better today while having an open, respectful and ambitious conversation about our future.
“Linzi is thoughtful, determined and committed to making politics work for people. She will bring a distinctive voice to our team and I know she will work tirelessly for people across South Antrim.”