Edwin Poots: Here's what you need to know about the new DUP leader Poots has said he would split the roles of party leader and Stormont first minister. By Hayley Halpin Friday 14 May 2021, 5:56 PM May 14th 2021, 5:56 PM 38,185 Views 32 Comments Edwin Poots Edwin Poots Image: Brian Lawless via PA Images IT WAS CONFIRMED this evening that Edwin Poots has been elected as the new leader of the DUP. NI Agriculture Minister Poots won the contest against Jeffrey Donaldson by 19 votes to 17. The choice for Poots was made by the 36 party members elected to the Northern Ireland Assembly (MLAs) and House of Commons (MPs).