In February 2021, following significant public controversy, Joanna Cherry, seen as an ally of Alex Salmond, was removed from Blackford's frontbench team due to unspecified "unacceptable behaviour, which did not meet the standards expected of a front bench spokesperson".

[5] In April 2021, a party staff member complained about Blackford's response to a sexual harassment allegation regarding SNP MP Patrick Grady.

[9] This comment was met with backlash from across the political spectrum and Blackford faced public calls to resign.

[11] On 23 November, the UK Supreme Court ruled that the Scottish Parliament does not have the power to legislate for an independence referendum.

[14] The following SNP politicians were speculated as potential candidates for the leadership but declined to stand: David Linden, MP for Glasgow East