Both of the Conservative Powys Senedd Members have put their support behind Darren Millar in the Welsh Leadership contest.

Both Russell George and James Evans have backed Clwyd West Senedd member Darren Millar in the leadership race following the surprise resignation of previous Welsh Conservative leader Andre RT Davies.

Mr George said he had been fully backing Mr Davies in the confidence vote held in his leadership earlier this week which came just before his resignation.

While in a post online Mr Evans praised Mr Davies saying his dedication had been “invaluable in standing up for our values and championing common sense politics” but added “as we look ahead to the 2026 Senedd Elections, it’s time for fresh energy and a new direction”.

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Mr George on the other hand praised the work Mr Davies had done for rural areas.

“Andrew RT Davies has had my full support, and I supported him in the vote that took place this week, said Mr George. 

“I’d like to thank Andrew for his support and leadership over the years, including his steadfast support for rural constituencies like Montgomeryshire. 

“I am backing my colleague Darren Millar to be our next Senedd leader. Darren has the experience and energy to lead the Welsh Conservatives and provide a real alternative to the Welsh Labour Government.’’

Mr Millar has served in the Senedd since 2007 and has held multiple roles in the shadow cabinet including  Shadow Minister for Environment and Shadow Minister for Education.

Mr Davies resigned on Tuesday after narrowly winning a confidence vote 9-7 in his favour.

He claimed a “substantial minority” of his party opposing his continued leadership made it “untenable”.

(Image: NQ)

Criticism for his social media use has also been widespread, including one occasion when he asked constituents if they wanted to see the Senedd abolished.

In comments to the Press Association, Mr Davies said:  “I do not accept that we have done culture war politics.”

“What we, under my leadership, have always done is seek to speak to the issues that people find challenging in their everyday lives and addressing them head on.

“We speak firmly about our beliefs as Welsh Conservatives. I was offering a full Welsh fry up with extra black pudding. My detractors wanted more muesli and croissant.”