THE CONSERVATIVE candidate vying to become the first mayor of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight has officially launched her campaign.
Donna Jones, who is currently serving as Police and Crime Commissioner for the region, will stand in the May 2026 elections for the role.
The politician was 'overwhelmingly' picked to be the candidate for the Conservative Party in August following a selection process.
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She officially launched her campaign on Saturday, September 27, in Alton alongside the Conservative Women's Organisation and East Hampshire MP Damian Hinds.
If elected, Ms Jones pledged to rename the Mayoral area, which is officially called Hampshire and the Solent, to Hampshire and the Isle of Wight 'so that it reflects the identity of our area'.
Also running in the mayoral elections as the Liberal Democrats candidate is Martin Tod, leader of Winchester City Council. Other parties, including Labour, have not yet announced their candidates for the election,
Speaking at the launch, Donna said it was 'fantastic to officially launch the campaign'.
She added: "In October, I will be launching my 'Big Conversation' giving residents in every community across the sub-region the chance to tell me directly what changes they want to see.
"After years of underinvestment from central government, this is a once in a generation opportunity to bring proper leadership and accountability to our area, securing the resources we need to deliver real improvements to the place we all call home.
"I’ve already spent five years standing up for residents across both counties as Police and Crime Commissioner. If elected Mayor, I will continue to listen, act, and deliver - just as I always have."
The newly elected mayor for the region in May 2026 will have statutory powers across areas including transport and infrastructure, skills and employment support, housing, economic development, environment, safety and more.
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