Candidates for first-ever Mayor of Sussex and Brighton revealed

The race to elect the first-ever Mayor of Sussex and Brighton is heating up ahead of polling day on Thursday, 7 May 2026. The new role will head the Sussex and Brighton Combined Authority, overseeing transport, housing, economic growth, skills, public health, and policing across East Sussex, West Sussex, and Brighton & Hove.

This election follows a devolution deal transferring significant powers from Westminster to the region, giving the mayor a direct say in shaping local priorities for 1.7 million residents. 

Confirmed Candidates

Five major parties and one independent have officially declared their candidates:

• Katy Bourne (Conservative Party)
  Currently Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner since 2012, Bourne brings extensive experience in public safety and governance. She is seen as an early frontrunner thanks to her strong county-wide profile.
• Caroline Baxter (Labour Party)
  A seasoned local politician, Baxter represents Central and Worthing East wards on Worthing Borough and West Sussex County Councils. Her campaign focuses on housing and transport improvements. 
• Ben Dempsey (Liberal Democrats)
  Former Hassocks councillor and 2024 parliamentary candidate, Dempsey pledges a “new deal for housing” and aims to make Sussex a “nature superpower,” appealing to environmentally conscious voters.
• Rachel Millward (Green Party)
  Deputy leader of Wealden District Council, Millward is a prominent voice on climate and sustainability. Her candidacy signals the Greens’ ambition to influence regional policy on environmental issues.
• Martin Webb (Independent)
  Entrepreneur and philanthropist, Webb positions himself as a non-partisan choice for voters disillusioned with party politics. His campaign promises pragmatic solutions and community-first leadership. 
• Paul Linehan (Reform UK)
  Announced this week, Linehan is a West Sussex councillor and former armed forces veteran. He pledges to prioritise public safety, housing, and skills development, aiming to give Sussex “a voice that works for its people”.

The new mayor will chair the Combined Authority and represent Sussex on the national Mayoral Council alongside leaders from London, Greater Manchester, and other devolved regions. The position carries significant influence over infrastructure, education, and policing strategy. 

Voting will be conducted under the first-past-the-post system, despite calls for a more consensus-driven supplementary vote method. Critics argue this could limit representation in such a large and diverse area.