Jack Middleton is seeking the nomination to become the party’s candidate for Aberdeen Central at next year’s Holyrood election.
The 30-year-old has worked for Swinney since 2023 and told The National he was “obsessed with independence”.
He previously worked on Humza Yousaf’s successful campaign to become SNP leader and has held a number of previous positions in the party and the Scottish Government.
It comes after Kevin Stewart (below) announced he would not be standing for re-election next year after suffering from an illness over the summer from which he has not fully recovered.
Middleton said: “We need new energy, and fresh voices, that will really connect with people if we’re going to close the gap between support for independence and support for the SNP.
“Party members in Aberdeen Central deserve an Aberdonian candidate who is obsessed with independence – just like Kevin.
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“That’s what I bring to the table and that’s why I’ve not hesitated to throw my hat in the ring to stand on an SNP platform in the city I love.”
Middleton (below) added that he was “gutted” that Stewart was stepping down, adding: “I’ve known Kevin for many years, and he’s been a true role model for me.
“He’s set an example as an honest, hard grafting MSP, and SNP members in Aberdeen Central need someone to take up that mantle. I believe I’m the fresh voice that can do just that.”
Scottish Government special advisers, sometimes referred to as spads, are permitted to seek nomination to become a parliamentary candidate with the First Minister’s approval.
They often make the jump from behind-the-scenes political work to elected office, though it can result in a pay cut depending on seniority.
The Scottish Government pays special advisers salaries of between £64,335 to £115,304 while MSPs are paid £74,507 per year.
Mairi McAllan served as a special adviser to Nicola Sturgeon during her time in charge, and Ed Miliband worked for Gordon Brown at the Treasury from 1997 to 2002.
Middleton was born in Aberdeen and grew up in the south of the city, attending Porthlethen Academy. He is a season ticket holder at Pittodrie.
