What does Wales think of the new Plaid Cymru Government?

The first 100 days of a new government can shape public perceptions, but what do people across Wales actually think of the new administration?

Beaufort's latest Snapshot survey explores awareness of the change in government, early perceptions of its performance, and the issues the Welsh public most wants it to tackle. Based on an online survey of 500 adults across Wales, the research reveals a picture of cautious recognition rather than settled judgement.

Six in ten correctly identify Plaid Cymru as the party now in government, yet fewer than half (46%) can name Rhun ap Iorwerth as First Minister. Views of the government's early performance are more positive than negative overall, with 39% saying it has performed well compared with 23% saying badly, although a substantial 38% remain unsure.

But the public's judgement is far from settled. Across most individual policy areas, the dominant response is that it is still too early to say. Welsh language and culture stands out as the clearest early strength, while assessments are considerably less positive on two issues that matter most to voters: the cost of living and NHS and healthcare.

And when people are asked what the government should prioritise over the next 12 months, cost of living emerges as the clear number-one issue, selected by 43%, followed by NHS waiting times at 19%.

So, has the new government made an impact yet? For nearly two-thirds (64%), the change in government has so far made no real difference to Wales. Yet there are signs of potential optimism: 30% expect its performance to improve over the next year, compared with 19% who expect it to get worse.