Jersey's next general election to move to a Sunday

Politicians in Jersey have voted to hold the island's next general election on a Sunday.

Islanders will head to the polls on 7 June 2026 to decide who they want to represent them in the States Assembly.

Elections in Jersey are normally held on Wednesdays.

Constable Karen Shenton-Stone said the change was aimed at making voting easier for working people, students and families.

Deputy Kristina Moore brought forward an amendment to Shenton-Stone's proposition to have the election on Sunday 26 April 2026 instead.

She said "it was absolutely imperative" to increase voter turnout, but believed the April date would "make a great deal of difference".

"In holding the election ahead of Liberation Day, it would avoid any discomfort some might feel who are about to start their election campaign whilst they're taking part in our national day of celebration," she said.

Moore's amendment was defeated with 39 votes against and six for.

Speaking before politicians voted on the original proposition, Shenton-Stone said there were examples of weekend elections being a success elsewhere.

She said the Privileges and Procedures Committee, of which she is a member, believed even a moderate increase in voter turnout would be worthwhile.

"Weekends are normally more leisurely, time management more flexible, and children will be off school so can accompany their parents to see democracy in action," she said.

The proposition was passed with 42 votes for, one against and two abstentions.

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