First elected in 1999 I represented my home town of Linlithgow and neighbouring villages on West Lothian Council for 16 years, being re-elected with an increased share of the votes at each subsequent election.

In addition to having successfully contested elections I have also played a major role in local SNP campaigns, helping at every election since 1992 and have served as parliamentary election agent for the Linlithgow Constituency in 1999, Linlithgow and East Falkirk Constituency in 2010, and Falkirk East Constituency in 2011. 

​A key participant in the 2007-12 SNP led administration on West Lothian Council, I held the Senior Councillor portfolio of Development and Transport on the Council Executive and was a representative on over 40 committees and outside bodies.

In opposition I acted as the SNP spokesperson for Development and Transport and was also the group whip, as well as representing my community in West Lothian and working passionately for independence for Scotland.

Over the last few years I enjoyed campaigning with the broader Yes movement; and have developed good working relationships and links with members from many of the pro-independence groups such as the RiC, SSP and Scottish Greens.

I became the elected Member of Parliament for the Linlithgow and East Falkirk Constituency at the general election on the 7th of May 2015; was re-elected at the snap general election held on the 8th of June 2016; and at the "Brexit" general election held on the 12th of December 2019.  I relish the opportunity to stand up for this constituency in Westminster and fight Scotland's corner in the House of Commons.