Get to know the Sir Fynwy Torfaen candidate team
The Senedd election in 2026 will be an opportunity that we’ve never had before for a brand-new Welsh Government not lead by Labour for the very first time.
Under the proportional electoral system, the latest polls show that Plaid Cymru is in the running to lead the Welsh Government, and we can win in all parts of Wales including here in our new constituency. This can only be achieved with your support.
Local Plaid Cymru members have so far shortlisted 4 candidates to stand in the 2026 Senedd election: Matthew Jones, Donna Cushing, David Johnson and Loti Glyn.
#1 Matthew Jones
Matthew was born and raised in Pontypool, and lives in Cwmbran. He is an experienced caseworker, having worked for Elin Jones MS for 5 years, including during Covid 19. Matthew works for a cancer charity and is committed to enabling the Welsh NHS to improve waiting times and outcomes, especially in the Aneurin Bevan Health Board. He is committed to fighting for fair funding for Wales, to improve public services, and to be a positive change in the area.
Facebook: /MatthewTorfaen
X (Twitter): @MatthewTorfaen
TikTok: @matthewplaid
#2 Donna Cushing
Donna Cushing has worked across south east Wales in local government and campaigning for disability rights and brings a wealth of knowledge as a candidate. Donna has a strong track record of campaigning for and standing up for working families as a County Councillor in Caerphilly and as a candidate for Police and Crime Commissioner for the Gwent Police region.
Donna’s father was a coal working miner and her mother – a cousin of Aneurin Bevan - ran her own business. Donna’s own work life has consisted of working for voluntary and disability organisations. She was instrumental in setting up a project on a Friday evening for young people in Caerphilly to alleviate antisocial behaviour.
#3 David Johnson
Dave Johnson was born and raised in Pontypridd he now lives in Chepstow. Dave has previously worked for the National Union of Students, in local Government, in the heritage sector and for an environmental charity before becoming a town planning lecturer at University of West England, Bristol for many years prior to his retirement.
Dave has also been a County, City and Parish Councillor for 18 years.
#4 Loti Glyn
Loti Glyn, a campaigner from Abergavenny, dedicated to community empowerment. Putting the needs of young people at the heart of Wales’ politics is one of Loti’s key aims, and she has worked on campaigns encouraging young people to use their voice in politics.
