She then worked as a freelance journalist before being re-elected to Westminster at the 1987 Election to represent Moray.
She stood for the leadership of the SNP in 1990 but lost out to Alex Salmond despite the backing of many prominent SNP members (such as Jim Sillars).
At the first Scottish Parliament Election she was returned to represent Moray. She was returned again in 2003.
She is married to fellow MSP Fergus Ewing.