AI-powered analysis of every announced candidate for the Isle of Man's House of Keys general election. Manifesto analysis, political compass classification, policy positions, evidence tracking, and weekly campaign updates — all powered by data.
All announced candidates for the 12 constituencies
Arbory, Castletown & Malew
Declared candidate for Arbory, Castletown & Malew in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Garff
Aishlinn Creer, vice chair of Garff Commissioners, announced: 'I am standing for election because I believe Garff deserves a stronger voice in Tynwald, a voice that asks difficult questions, a voice that challenges waste and complacency, a voice that stands up for residents, a voice that delivers.'
Glenfaba & Peel
Alex Perriam to stand in September's General Election.
Middle
Alf Caine announces plans to stand in September's General Election as the third candidate for Middle.
Ayre & Michael
Alfred Cannan to stand in General Election Serving Chief Minister confirms plans to re-run in September.
Middle
Senior surgeon at Noble's Hospital with more than 15 years practising on the Isle of Man. Announced candidacy on 11 April 2026 for the Middle constituency at the 2026 House of Keys general election (24 September 2026). Frames his campaign around urgent reform of the Manx NHS, sustainable public finances, and a housing market that works for young Manx residents rather than speculators. Has no prior political experience; stands without party affiliation.
Douglas Central
Declared candidate for Douglas Central in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Arbory, Castletown & Malew
Declared candidate for Arbory, Castletown & Malew in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Douglas East
Declared candidate for Douglas East in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Glenfaba & Peel
Andrew Harris hoping to be elected in September's General Election.
Douglas East
Quids Inn owner Andrew Saunders to stand for election.
Garff
Garff MHK won't contest his seat in September's General Election: Andrew Smith says his decision has been led by recent health news.
Douglas Central
Douglas Central MHK seeking re-election: Ann Corlett has represented the constituency since 2016.
Garff
Onchan commissioner to stand for election in Garff; Anthony Allen has sat on the board for 10 years.
Douglas East
Declared candidate for Douglas East in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Douglas Central
Incumbent MHK for Douglas Central and Treasury Minister. Three terms: won Douglas West by-election in 2013, elected Douglas Central in 2016 and 2021. Oxford graduate (Balliol College), qualified financial analyst (UBS London). Moved to Isle of Man in 2001. International career includes Project Director for the EU-China Financial Services Co-operation Project in Beijing (2004-07), Chief Technical Advisor for Luxembourg's financial sector project in Vietnam (2009-11). Ran the Financial Regulation MSc at the International Business School. Former Vice Chair of the Office of Fair Trading (resigned over gas regulatory agreement). Chaired Tynwald committees on Rating, Landlord and Tenant, and Planning. Married to Tania, plays double bass, chairs the IoM United Nations Association.
Douglas South
Claire Christian confirms she'll be standing in September's vote.
Arbory, Castletown & Malew
A second requisition meeting has been called by Arbory's Captain of the Parish Claire Whiteway for the same constituency.
Douglas East
Declared candidate for Douglas East in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Glenfaba & Peel
Colleen Dale-Beeton announces election bid for September in Glenfaba and Peel.
Douglas North
Declared candidate for Douglas North in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Glenfaba & Peel
Declared candidate for Glenfaba & Peel in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Garff
Education Minister Daphne Caine hoping to retain seat in September.
Douglas East
Third candidate to stand for election in Douglas East Dave Mackey hopes to gain a seat in the House of Keys.
Douglas North
David Ashford has declared his intention to stand for re-election in Douglas North, citing housing pressures, strains on health and social care, rising living costs, and frustration with public service accessibility as reasons for seeking another term.
Douglas South
Declared candidate for Douglas South in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Douglas North
Declared candidate for Douglas North in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Douglas North
Denis Staunton owns Paparazzi restaurant and is standing for the new political party 'Change'.
Douglas Central
Council leader Devon Watson becomes the third candidate for Douglas Central, intending to stand in September's General Election.
Onchan
Onchan's first candidate declares intention to stand in election Commissioner Gabriella Corkish says her decision has not been taken lightly.
Rushen
Sixth candidate declares for Rushen: Gary Chambers hoping for a seat in the House of Keys.
Arbory, Castletown & Malew
Declared candidate for Arbory, Castletown & Malew in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Glenfaba & Peel
Declared candidate for Glenfaba & Peel in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Douglas Central
Declared candidate for Douglas Central in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Rushen
Helen Sheppard to stand in September's General Election.
Douglas North
First election candidate for Douglas North declares intention to stand; Hugo Yates wants to see a more dependable government.
Middle
Declared candidate for Middle in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Lonan Ward
Three candidates have come forward to stand: James Curtis of Rencell.
Glenfaba & Peel
First candidate declares for Glenfaba and Peel; James Hampton standing as an independent candidate.
Middle
Middle MHK announces plans to stand for re-election Jane Poole-Wilson hoping to serve for a second term.
Douglas North
Janet Thommeny is set to make a House of Keys bid in Douglas North.
Ramsey
Janine Shimmin hopes for a House of Keys seat from September.
Douglas North
Declared candidate for Douglas North in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Middle
Prison officer declares for Middle; Jason Moore to stand in September's election.
Arbory, Castletown & Malew
Declared candidate for Arbory, Castletown & Malew in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Arbory, Castletown & Malew
Third candidate declares for Arbory, Castletown and Malew; Jeroen Wats is the CEO of a company working with sustainable and recyclable material.
Lonan Ward
Three candidates have come forward to stand: John James Hewison of Dumbells Terrace.
Douglas East
Sitting MHK Joney Faragher announces intention stand in September's election.
Arbory, Castletown & Malew
Declared candidate for Arbory, Castletown & Malew in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Ramsey
Ramsey's first candidate declares for general election Commissioner Juan McGuinness intends to stand in September.
Ayre & Michael
Julia Bell announces bid for seat in September's General Election.
Onchan
Onchan MHK Julie Edge to seek third term in House of Keys Former education minister confirms intention to stand in September's election
Glenfaba & Peel
Peel Commissioner Katryna Baptist announces election bid as the fourth candidate for Glenfaba and Peel.
Arbory, Castletown & Malew
Commissioner declares intention to stand in Arbory, Castletown and Malew; Kirrie Jenkins will be standing as an independent candidate.
Rushen
PSM commissioner declares intention to stand for the House of Keys Laurence Vaughan-Williams to contest for seat in Rushen
Ramsey
MHK declares intention to stand for re-election in Ramsey Lawrie Hooper has represented the constituency since 2016
Douglas South
Third candidate to stand for election in Douglas South Livia Lenarduzzi hopes to gain a seat in the House of Keys.
Glenfaba & Peel
Declared candidate for Glenfaba & Peel in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Arbory, Castletown & Malew
Has lived on the Isle of Man for 25 years, growing up in the south of the island. Worked as a mechanic for 15 years. Decade-long involvement in the music industry as performer, promoter, and sound engineer — collaborations with Spinnin Vannin and Skimmee Aile. Emphasises practical representation and supporting those facing hardship.
Rushen
Mark Kemp to stand in September's General Election.
Garff
Former Garff MHK hopes to regain his seat in September.
Ayre & Michael
Lezayre Commissioner to stand for Ayre & Michael in House of Keys election.
Rushen
Chartered accountant to stand for House of Keys in Rushen; Michael Crowe is a former Chamber of Commerce president and Finance Isle of Man chief exec.
Rushen
Rushen MHK to stand for re-election in September; Michelle Haywood has represented the constituency since 2021.
Onchan
Oliver John Lockwood, who has declared his intention to stand in Onchan, has been investigated for three separate issues.
Onchan
Onchan commissioner announces General Election bid Oliver Lockwood joined the local authority last year
Ayre & Michael
First election candidate declares for Ayre and Michael Paul Weatherall is the chair of the Liberal Vannin Party
Onchan
Declared candidate for Onchan in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Garff
Farmer declares intention to stand for election in Garff; Peter Kermeen hoping to secure HoK seat in September.
Arbory, Castletown & Malew
The first public meeting has been organised by the government and Captain of the Parish Peter Quayle for voters in Arbory, Castletown or Malew.
Douglas Central
Mid-thirties Manxman, born and raised in Douglas (Ballacloan, Fairfield, Ballakermeen). Son of former MHK John Shimmin (Douglas West 1996-2016, Minister of Transport). Both parents teachers. BA Acting from Arts University Bournemouth (2:1), Digital Marketing Leadership from Squared Online (Distinction). Career spans performing arts, tech startups (HelloFresh, Laundrapp, OYO UK, Mindful Chef), marketing, and government. Returned during pandemic. Ran Kensington Arts centre (Diversity Champion, 2022 Media IOM Awards), joined IOM Arts Council. Communications Officer for IoM Government (2023-24), Implementation Officer for Public Health IoM (2024-26). Left job March 2026 to campaign full-time for Douglas Central.
Douglas North
Peter Washington to stand in September's General Election.
Ayre & Michael
Phil Corkill to stand in September.
Onchan
Scientist to stand for election in Onchan Dr Rachel Glover seeking a seat in the House of Keys
Glenfaba & Peel
Declared candidate for Glenfaba & Peel in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Lonan Ward
Three candidates have come forward to stand: Richard Glen Taylor of Back Shore Road.
Onchan
Onchan MHK announces intention to stand in election Rob Callister will be seeking a third term representing the constituency
Ramsey
Third candidate to stand for election in Ramsey Robert Cowell is a company director and former commissioner.
Douglas South
Born in Douglas. Studied Counselling with Communication Studies at University of Chester. Career in social care and education support before entering parliament. First elected MHK for Douglas South in 2021. Manx Labour Party member since 2011, currently Chair and Deputy Leader. Political member for Dept for Enterprise (Visit IOM & Motorsport) and Dept of Education, Sport & Culture. Chair of Isle of Man Arts Council. Political Trustee of Manx National Heritage.
Garff
First election candidate declares for Garff Firefighter Sean Bostrom wants to continue serving the Island in a new way
Douglas Central
Declared candidate for Douglas Central in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Middle
Simon Sinclair, a pub manager and delivery driver, is the fourth candidate to stand in Middle.
Rushen
Born Rushen 1968. Manx Tattoo Ltd owner (15 years). Former power station operator and farm worker.
Ayre & Michael
Stephen Broad runs a haulage and crane hire business and has announced his intention to stand.
Arbory, Castletown & Malew
Declared candidate for Arbory, Castletown & Malew in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Ayre & Michael
Declared candidate for Ayre & Michael in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Ayre & Michael
Declared candidate for Ayre & Michael in the 2026 House of Keys election.
Glenfaba & Peel
Sixth candidate declares for Glenfaba and Peel Trevor Cowin hoping to gain seat in September's General Election.
Garff
Vicki Hewison announces House of Keys bid as the seventh candidate for Garff.
Rushen
Torden Stores owner, Vicky East, to stand in September.
AI-estimated positions based on manifesto and public statements. Not a definitive classification.
The Isle of Man has no formal party system — all 24 MHKs stand as independents. This makes manifesto analysis especially important for voters trying to understand where candidates stand.
Smart Island uses AI to analyse each candidate's manifesto, news appearances, social media, and public statements to estimate:
These are AI estimates, not definitive labels. All source evidence is linked so you can judge for yourself.
AI-estimated stance scores from -5 (strongly against / left) to +5 (strongly for / right). Based on manifesto and public statements.
| Candidate | 💰Economy & Tax | 🏥Healthcare | 🏠Housing | 🎓Education | 🌱Environment & Climate | 🚢Transport & Infrastructure | 💻Digital & Technology | 🌍Immigration & Population | 🛒Cost of Living | 🏛️Government & Transparency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peter Shimmin Douglas Central | +2 fiscal conservative | -2 reformist | -2 local-first reform | -2 youth empowerment | -1 renewable but anti-Mooir Vannin | -1 service improvement | 0 tech-aware | +1 managed growth | -2 pro-support | +2 small-government reformist |
| Sarah Maltby Douglas South | -4 pro-worker | -3 universalist | -5 affordable | -4 inclusive | -3 sustainable | — | — | — | -4 interventionist | -3 reformist |
| Mark Firth Arbory, Castletown & Malew | 0 practical | — | -2 reformist | -1 progressive | -1 green reform | 0 improvement-focused | 0 modernising | — | -2 supportive | -2 reformist |
| Simon Williams Rushen | — | -2 reform-focused | -3 affordable housing | — | +1 heritage-linked | — | — | +2 managed | -1 supportive | -1 accountability-focused |
| Chris Thomas Douglas Central | -2 inclusive growth | -2 reform and invest | -3 interventionist | -1 invest and localise | -1 conservation-minded | -2 invest and regulate | — | 0 managed strategy | -3 pro-intervention | -1 reform from within |
| Andre Risha Middle | +2 fiscal-discipline | -3 urgent-reform | -2 interventionist | — | — | — | — | +2 speculation-restrictive | +1 tourism-and-growth | +2 reformist |
| Juan McGuinness Ramsey | — | -1 accountability-focused | -2 pragmatic reform | — | 0 cautious engagement | 0 local stewardship | — | — | — | -1 pro-accountability |
| Gabriella Corkish Onchan | 0 pragmatic localist | -1 coordination-focused | -1 targeted support | -1 pro-investment | -1 food-security oriented | 0 infrastructure-minded | 0 no clear position | 0 not stated | -1 targeted relief | -1 accountability reformist |
| Rob Callister Onchan | 0 pro-jobs, cautious reform | -2 reformist, critical of status quo | -2 provisionist, frustrated with delivery | — | 0 cautious, evidence-led | 0 responsive to local issues | — | +1 cautious, confidence-building | -1 acknowledges pressures, lacks detail | -1 pro-transparency, accountability |
| James Curtis Lonan Ward | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| John James Hewison Lonan Ward | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Richard Glen Taylor Lonan Ward | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Hugo Yates Douglas North | — | — | — | — | — | — | +1 pro-digital | +2 border-controls | — | 0 good-government reformist |
| Rachel Glover Onchan | -1 diversification-focused | 0 value-for-money | -2 pro-family, interventionist | -1 family-focused | -2 pro-renewables | — | -1 innovation-positive | — | — | 0 accountability-driven |
| Laurence Vaughan-Williams Rushen | -1 regional investment | -2 protective | 0 cautious | -2 infrastructure-focused | — | — | — | — | — | -1 accountability-driven |
| Oliver Lockwood Onchan | +2 fiscal prudence | 0 value-for-money reform | 0 undeclared | 0 undeclared | -1 active-travel supportive | -1 active-travel focused | 0 undeclared | 0 undeclared | +1 value-for-money | +1 technocratic reformist |
| Paul Weatherall Ayre & Michael | -2 pro-local, green stimulus | — | -3 decarbonisation, affordability | -2 skills-focused, green transition | -4 radical action | -2 pro-EV, infrastructure investment | -1 skills & business support | — | -2 mitigation via green jobs | -1 collaborative, reformist |
| Julie Edge Onchan | -1 fiscal-scrutinist | -2 reformist | 0 unspecified | -1 reformist | 0 unspecified | 0 unspecified | 0 unspecified | 0 unspecified | -1 consumer-protective | -2 accountability-first |
| Lawrie Hooper Ramsey | -1 critical reformist | — | -2 reformist | 0 skills-focused | — | 0 consultative | +1 cautious | — | — | -1 accountability-focused |
| Sean Bostrom Garff | -2 pro-community investment | -2 public service improvement | -1 youth retention | -1 supportive | 0 community stewardship | 0 not addressed | 0 not addressed | -1 youth retention | -1 supportive | 0 collaborative reform |
| Kirrie Jenkins Arbory, Castletown & Malew | 0 pro-growth, cautious reform | — | -2 reformist, community-focused | -1 pragmatic, improvement-driven | -1 balanced, locally responsive | -1 community-first, safety-focused | — | — | -2 supportive, fairness-driven | -2 transparency advocate |
| Mary Phillips Ayre & Michael | 0 cautious | -2 audit-focused | — | -1 prioritises investment | — | — | — | — | — | -2 transparency advocate |
| Jeroen Wats Arbory, Castletown & Malew | +1 business-led green growth | — | — | — | -2 strongly pro-sustainability | — | — | — | — | — |
| Peter Kermeen Garff | +1 pragmatic small-business | — | — | -1 priority area | — | — | — | — | — | +1 civil-service reform |
| Joney Faragher Douglas East | -4 redistributive | -3 reformist | -4 interventionist | -3 protective | — | — | — | -1 cautious | -4 supportive | -2 accountability-focused |
| Michael Crowe Rushen | +3 pro-business | +1 efficiency-focused | +1 infrastructure investment | +1 targeted investment | — | — | — | — | — | +2 accountability-driven |
| Anthony Allen Garff | +2 business-minded, growth-oriented | 0 concerned but unspecified | 0 undeclared | 0 undeclared | +2 pro-renewables | 0 undeclared | 0 undeclared | 0 undeclared | 0 undeclared | +1 localist, experienced administrator |
| James Hampton Glenfaba & Peel | +1 reformist | 0 reformist | 0 reformist | 0 unspecified | 0 sustainability-focused | 0 unspecified | 0 unspecified | — | 0 broad reform | 0 institutional reform |
| Jason Moore Middle | — | -2 reformist | -3 affordable-first | — | 0 pragmatic | — | — | — | -1 concerned | -1 accountability-focused |
| Michelle Haywood Rushen | -2 fiscally cautious, pro-jobs | — | -3 reformist | — | -4 green transition | -2 infrastructure-focused | — | — | — | -3 reformist, transparent |
| Julia Bell Ayre & Michael | — | -2 public-service focused | -1 priority issue | -1 supportive | -2 nature-positive | — | — | — | — | 0 independent, community-oriented |
| Andrew Harris Glenfaba & Peel | +4 fiscal conservative | — | 0 unspecified | — | +2 anti-wind referendum | +1 fare-focused | — | — | — | +2 anti-waste |
| Daphne Caine Garff | -1 pro-inclusion | -2 public service focus | -2 inequality reduction | -3 progressive reform | -1 heritage and sustainability | 0 safety-focused | 0 supportive | — | -1 inequality reduction | -1 community-focused |
| Claire Christian Douglas South | +1 pro-growth, fiscally cautious | -1 reformist, integrated care focus | -1 affordability-focused | — | — | — | — | — | 0 pragmatic, acknowledges challenge | 0 reformist, performance-driven |
| Martyn Perkins Garff | 0 pragmatic | -1 concerned reformer | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | -1 anti-bureaucratic reform |
| Stephen Broad Ayre & Michael | +2 pro-business | 0 service improvement | — | 0 modernisation | — | — | — | — | 0 concerned | -2 reformist |
| Vicky East Rushen | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Aishlinn Creer Garff | +1 fiscal-scrutinist | -1 priority area | 0 undeclared | 0 undeclared | +1 cautious-sceptical | 0 undeclared | 0 undeclared | 0 undeclared | -1 consumer-protection | 0 accountability-focused |
| Mark Kemp Rushen | +1 pragmatic pro-business | — | 0 undeclared | 0 priority area | 0 undeclared | +1 strategic connectivity | 0 not stated | — | 0 concerned but vague | +1 law-and-order reformist |
| Peter Washington Douglas North | — | -3 NHS-style public health advocate | -4 social housing advocate | -2 public-service focused | — | — | — | — | — | -1 local-representation |
| Andrew Saunders Douglas East | +2 small-business supportive | -1 improve health and social care | -1 family-focused supply | 0 family-oriented | 0 undeclared | 0 undeclared | 0 undeclared | 0 undeclared | -1 family and business relief | +1 anti-establishment reform |
| Alex Perriam Glenfaba & Peel | +1 localist, pro-business | -1 improve access | -2 affordability-focused | — | — | — | — | — | -1 mitigation | 0 transparency-focused |
| Katryna Baptist Glenfaba & Peel | +1 small-business pragmatic | -1 priority area, reform-minded | -2 pro-supply, concern-focused | 0 undetermined | -1 recreationally green, undeveloped | 0 unclear, local-access oriented | 0 undetermined | 0 undetermined | -1 consumer-focused but vague | -2 accountability and transparency |
| Colleen Dale-Beeton Glenfaba & Peel | -1 pro-accountability | -2 reformist | -3 interventionist | -2 skills-focused | 0 pragmatic | 0 community-focused | +1 innovation-friendly | +1 balanced | -2 protection-focused | -1 accountability-driven |
| Devon Watson Douglas Central | -4 pro-intervention | -4 universalist | -5 crisis-response | -3 access-expansion | — | — | — | — | -5 anti-poverty | -3 reformist |
| Simon Sinclair Middle | -1 community-focused | -2 reformist | -1 concerned | -1 community investment | 0 security-driven | — | — | — | -2 protective | 0 community engagement |
| Alf Caine Middle | 0 pro-accountability | -2 critical | -1 concerned | — | -2 protectionist | 0 critical | — | — | -1 advocate | -3 reformist |
| Vicki Hewison Garff | +1 small-business supportive | -1 protective of local provision | -1 community-protective | — | +2 anti-windfarm | 0 local-impact focused | — | — | — | -1 trust-and-accountability |
| David Ashford Douglas North | -1 pragmatic reformist | -2 service-focused | -3 pro-reform | — | 0 cautious localist | 0 service improvement | — | — | -2 supportive | -1 accountability-focused |
| Dave Mackey Douglas East | +1 pro-growth | — | — | — | -1 pro-renewables | 0 connectivity-focused | — | — | -1 sympathetic | 0 grassroots |
| Robert Cowell Ramsey | +2 pro-growth | 0 unspecified | 0 underdeveloped | 0 family-focused | 0 unspecified | 0 local-delivery | 0 unspecified | 0 unspecified | +2 tax-conscious | +1 reformist |
| Livia Lenarduzzi Douglas South | +1 pragmatic pro-business | 0 quality-focused | -1 acknowledges crisis | — | — | — | — | — | -1 concerned | +1 efficiency-driven |
| Trevor Cowin Glenfaba & Peel | +1 personal-benefit / status-quo | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | -1 petition-led reformist |
| Jane Poole-Wilson Middle | +2 pro-growth | -1 rehabilitation-focused justice | — | — | -1 sustainability-oriented | — | +2 pro-surveillance | — | — | +1 experienced/incumbent |
| Alfred Cannan Ayre & Michael | +2 pragmatic pro-growth | +1 cautious reform | +1 status quo with limited intervention | 0 incremental improvement | 0 cautious transition | +1 pragmatic investment | +2 pro-digital economy | — | +1 moderate intervention | 0 collective responsibility |
| Juan Christian Arbory, Castletown & Malew | 0 pragmatic reform | -1 accountability and support | 0 not addressed | 0 not addressed | -1 resilience-focused | 0 not addressed | 0 not addressed | 0 not addressed | 0 not addressed | 0 incremental reform |
| Jason Moorhouse Arbory, Castletown & Malew | +2 pro-growth, cautious | -1 improve access, maintain services | — | — | +1 balanced, cautious on renewables | 0 pragmatic local improvements | — | — | -1 responsive, supportive | +1 accountability, value for money |
| Abby Quirk Arbory, Castletown & Malew | +1 small-business supportive | -1 patient-focused reform | 0 not stated | 0 not stated | 0 not stated | 0 not stated | 0 not stated | 0 not stated | 0 not stated | -1 victims' rights reform |
| Geoff Sutcliffe Arbory, Castletown & Malew | +1 small-business supportive | 0 public services supportive | 0 undeclared | 0 undeclared | -1 protectionist | 0 undeclared | 0 undeclared | 0 undeclared | 0 financially cautious | 0 transparent and accountable |
| Steve Curphey Ayre & Michael | +1 reformist-centrist | +1 cost-control | 0 not stated | 0 not stated | 0 practical stewardship | 0 not stated | 0 not stated | 0 not stated | +1 tax reform | +2 reformist |
| Tim Johnston Ayre & Michael | +3 pro-growth pragmatist | 0 not stated | 0 not stated | 0 not stated | -1 cautious balance | +2 route-focused | 0 not stated | 0 not stated | +1 concerned but undefined | +1 ministerial continuity |
| Gary Chambers Rushen | 0 unknown | 0 unknown | 0 unknown | 0 unknown | 0 unknown | 0 unknown | 0 unknown | 0 unknown | 0 unknown | 0 unknown |
| Ann Corlett Douglas Central | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Andrew Smith Garff | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Andrea Krüger Douglas Central | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Ray Harmer Glenfaba & Peel | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Phil Corkill Ayre & Michael | 0 unspecified | 0 unspecified | 0 unspecified | 0 unspecified | 0 unspecified | 0 unspecified | 0 unspecified | 0 unspecified | 0 unspecified | 0 unspecified |
| Helen Sheppard Rushen | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Janine Shimmin Ramsey | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 0 change-seeking |
| Steve Crowther Arbory, Castletown & Malew | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Clare Barber Douglas East | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Jason Cheetham Douglas North | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Daniel Davison Glenfaba & Peel | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Geoffrey Pugh Glenfaba & Peel | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Damian Ciappelli Douglas North | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| James Cochrane Middle | +1 evidence-led pro-growth | 0 delivery-focused reform | +1 pro-supply | 0 underdeveloped | 0 not clearly defined | 0 not stated | 0 open-data advocate | +1 labour-supply aware | 0 cost-aware | 0 radical transparency |
| Janet Thommeny Douglas North | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Oliver John Lockwood Onchan | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 0 unclear |
| Peter Quayle Arbory, Castletown & Malew | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 0 unknown |
| Claire Whiteway Arbory, Castletown & Malew | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Andrew Corrin Arbory, Castletown & Malew | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Sharon Lee Bridgens Douglas Central | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| George Hargreaves Douglas Central | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Andrew Forster Douglas East | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Arwid Hall Douglas East | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Denis J Staunton Douglas North | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Dean Bolton Douglas South | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Mark Cleator Glenfaba & Peel | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Peter Karran Onchan | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Denis Staunton Douglas North | +2 pro-business | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | +1 new-party reformist |
AI analysis of candidate positions, outliers, and scenarios
Across 90 candidates, the average position is centrist (economic: -0.4) and socially centrist (social: 0.3). The field is tightly clustered around the centre — voters may struggle to differentiate candidates on ideology alone.
Peter Shimmin, Sarah Maltby, Gabriella Corkish, Oliver Lockwood, Paul Weatherall and 13 more stand out from the pack. Sarah Maltby (Douglas South) is the most distinctive — positioned at economic -6, social -7. These candidates offer voters a genuine alternative to the centrist consensus.
Challengers average economic -0.3 while incumbents average -1.1. New candidates are pushing the field rightward — expect debates on tax, business, and economic freedom.
Economy & Tax has the widest spread of opinion. Andrew Harris scores +4 while Sarah Maltby scores -4. This is the issue where voters will find the starkest differences between candidates.
Nearly all candidates agree on immigration & population (average score: +0.3, spread of just 3). The consensus is towards the centre, suggesting incremental rather than transformative change.
If the 7 left-leaning candidates all won seats, expect priority on housing, costofliving, economy. Given IoM challenges — housing costs, healthcare access, population strategy — this could mean stronger public intervention, higher spending, and tighter regulation. The island's zero-rate corporate tax could face pressure.
A Keys dominated by the 2 right-leaning candidates would prioritise economy, governance, environment. For the IoM, this likely means protecting the tax-neutral environment, business-friendly regulation, and market-led solutions to housing and healthcare. Population growth through work permits could accelerate.
With 81 of 90 candidates (90%) in the centre, continuity is the most likely outcome. The IoM's pragmatic, non-partisan tradition would continue — incremental improvements rather than wholesale reform. The biggest risk? A Keys that agrees on everything but delivers nothing bold.
Analysis computed from 90 candidate positions. These are data-driven observations, not predictions or endorsements.
Each constituency elects 2 Members of the House of Keys (MHKs)
Andreas, Bride, Jurby, Lezayre, Michael
0 registered voters
Arbory, Castletown, Malew
0 registered voters
Douglas (Central)
0 registered voters
Douglas (East)
0 registered voters
Douglas (North), Braddan
0 registered voters
Douglas (South)
0 registered voters
Lonan, Maughold, Laxey
0 registered voters
German, Patrick, Peel
0 registered voters
Braddan, Marown, Santon
0 registered voters
Onchan
0 registered voters
Rushen, Port Erin, Port St Mary
0 registered voters
Announcements, news mentions, and key events tracked from now until polling day
Perriam to run in Glenfaba and Peel
Alex Perriam has declared he will stand in Glenfaba and Peel in the 2026 election. He says he wants government to get the basics right and focus on ordinary people’s priorities, including responsible population growth and support for the Island’s farming, fishing and heritage.
Shimmin standing for election in Ramsey
Janine Shimmin has declared she will stand for election in Ramsey in the 2026 general election. She says she is running because she has been shocked and disappointed by government decisions over the last five years and wants to make a change for Ramsey and the Isle of Man.
Glover withdraws re-election bid
Tim Glover, MHK for Arbory, Castletown and Malew, has announced he will not stand for re-election in 2026 due to his wife's health issues, specifically her diagnosis with fibromyalgia.
Claire Christian, current MHK for Arbory, Castletown and Malew, has announced she will defend her seat in the 2026 general election, highlighting her priorities as maintaining strong public finances, housing affordability, and economic growth.
Perkins seeking return to politics in election bid
Martyn Perkins, former MHK for Garff, has announced his intention to stand again in the 2026 general election, expressing concerns about the current administration and a desire to improve government accountability.
Andrew Harris to stand in Glenfaba and Peel
Andrew Harris has announced his candidacy for Glenfaba and Peel in the 2026 general election, prioritizing stopping frivolous government spending, making ferries affordable, and holding a referendum on wind turbines.
Surgeon Andre Risha announces candidacy for Middle
Senior Noble's Hospital surgeon with 15+ years on the Island declares for Middle constituency. Priorities: urgent NHS reform, housing market reform (restrict speculative purchasing, Channel Islands-style incentives for first-time buyers), reforming 'Mad March' departmental spending, reining in post-pandemic bureaucratic growth, and expanding tourism VAT relief beyond the current 5% accommodation-only band.
Chris Thomas MHK confirms intention to run for re-election
Incumbent Treasury Minister and three-term Douglas Central MHK confirms he will seek re-election. 2026 manifesto not yet published.
Peter Shimmin in-depth interview — political stance revealed
25-minute interview. Shimmin reveals he is socially left but economically right-of-centre. Calls government 'too big' — wants to trim non-core services. Would vote yes on assisted dying. Has engaged with Chris Robert Shaw and Alaman First. Expects a 'change election' in Douglas Central.
Simon Williams declares for Rushen
Tattooist and business owner of 25 years. Born in Rushen, lives in Port Erin. Priorities: GP waiting times, housing, immigration, Manx culture.
Peter Shimmin announces candidacy for Douglas Central
Son of former MHK John Shimmin. Priorities: cost of living, young people, public trust. Left job to campaign full-time for 6 months.
Firth launches bid for Arbory, Castletown & Malew seat
Mark Firth announces candidacy. 15-year mechanic, music industry background. Focuses on practical representation.
Sarah Maltby becomes first candidate to declare for 2026 election
Incumbent MHK for Douglas South. First to officially announce. Backed by Manx Labour Party, of which she is Chair and Deputy Leader.
The Isle of Man is set to hold its next House of Keys general election on 17 September 2026. With 24 seats across 12 constituencies (two seats each), this election will determine the composition of the lower branch of Tynwald, the Manx parliament. As the campaign season begins, several key themes and early candidate announcements are shaping the political landscape.
So far, five candidates have declared their intentions to run, spanning four contested constituencies out of twelve. Two incumbents-Sarah Maltby (Douglas South) and Chris Thomas (Douglas Central)-have confirmed their candidacies, while three challengers are stepping forward in Douglas Central, Arbory, Castletown & Malew, and Rushen. With 159 days until polling day, the field is expected to expand as more candidates declare.
The Isle of Man’s political culture is characterized by a dominance of independent candidates, with only a small presence of formal parties such as Manx Labour and Liberal Vannin. Early candidate positions suggest a centrist to centre-left tilt on both economic and social issues:
This distribution continues the Manx tradition of pragmatic, issue-based politics rather than rigid left-right alignments.
Manifestos and early campaign statements highlight several recurring policy themes:
Compared to the 2021 election, the 2026 cycle is notable for an even more pronounced focus on cost-of-living pressures and housing affordability. The lingering effects of post-pandemic economic adjustment and inflation are dominant campaign issues. While the party system remains weak, the ideological spectrum is narrowing around pragmatic, centre-left solutions, with less explicit right-wing or libertarian presence so far.
As more candidates declare and manifestos are published, data analysts and voters alike should watch for:
With the campaign season still unfolding, the 2026 House of Keys election promises both continuity and new challenges for the Isle of Man’s unique political environment.
AI-generated campaign digest, updated every week until polling day
44 days remain until polling day, and the Isle of Man election field is now firmly taking shape. With 77 candidates across 12 constituencies competing for 24 seats, the campaign is moving from early positioning into the more competitive phase, particularly in the larger multi-seat districts.
No major new campaign events were recorded in the latest update, but the candidate list continues to broaden and confirm the scale of the contest. Several constituencies now have crowded fields, suggesting that local name recognition and turnout operations will matter as much as broad policy messaging.
Among the more closely watched line-ups are Arbory, Castletown & Malew, Glenfaba & Peel, Garff, Rushen and Onchan, where multiple challengers are set to test established incumbents. The presence of sitting members such as Jason Moorhouse, Tim Glover, Kate Lord-Brennan, Julie Edge and Rob Callister gives these races an early benchmark against which challengers will be judged.
With no formal manifesto launches logged this week, the campaign is still being shaped by broader themes rather than detailed pledges. The issues most likely to dominate remain cost of living, housing supply, public services, healthcare capacity and economic resilience. In multi-seat constituencies, candidates will also need to distinguish themselves on practical local concerns such as transport, planning and community infrastructure.
The high number of incumbents seeking re-election suggests voters will be comparing continuity against change. That dynamic is likely to sharpen as candidates begin setting out more specific positions over the coming weeks.
With 44 days to go, the next important stretch of the campaign will be candidate launches, constituency meetings and the first more detailed policy statements. As nominations settle, attention should turn to whether the busiest contests can sustain momentum and whether any late entrants alter the balance in marginal-looking seats.
Expect the next phase to bring clearer contrasts in Douglas North, Douglas East, Douglas South and Ayre & Michael, where incumbent strength, turnout and vote-splitting could all prove decisive.
Every score, summary, and question on this platform is AI-generated from public evidence. We publish the exact prompts, the scoring system, and all known limitations. No black boxes.
The House of Keys is the directly elected lower chamber of Tynwald, the Isle of Man's parliament and the oldest continuous parliament in the world. 24 Members (MHKs) represent 12 two-seat constituencies. Elections are held every 5 years. Unlike Westminster, there is no formal party system — while parties like Manx Labour and Liberal Vannin exist, most candidates stand as independents and Tynwald does not operate on party lines.
Smart Island scrapes candidate announcements, manifestos, and news mentions from IoM media. AI (Azure OpenAI) analyses each source to estimate political position and policy stances. All analysis links to source evidence. Candidate portraits are AI-generated 2D illustrations based on press photos, not real photographs.
Political compass positions and policy scores are AI estimates, not self-reported positions. They should be treated as indicative, not definitive. Smart Island is non-partisan and does not endorse any candidate. Read our full AI methodology →
