Heated competition in the race for the Áras as Sinn Féin convenes for a meeting
In the lead-up to the upcoming Irish Presidential election, various political parties are considering their options. Independent TD Catherine Connolly is seeking the backing of Sinn Feín and other left-wing parties for her bid, while Sinn Feín itself is deliberating on whether to mount a challenge or support an agreed opposition candidate.
The Sinn Feín Ard Chomhairle is set to study the findings of an internal consultation on the election strategy. Potential candidates for the party include Michelle O'Neill, Donegal TD Pearse Doherty, and Belfast North MP John Finucane, who is considered a formidable campaigner.
If Sinn Feín is to enter the race, it may field its best candidate, potentially its own leader. However, the cost of running a presidential election campaign is estimated to be over €400,000 (£349,000), a significant financial commitment. Additionally, the party's performance in the 2018 election, where they received just over 6% of the vote, could be a cause for concern.
Meanwhile, Mairead McGuinness will contest the election for Fine Gael, and entrepreneur Peter Casey, who came second in the 2018 election, is seeking the nomination once again. Independent Senator Frances Black, who was previously tipped as the opposition unity candidate, ruled herself out in June.
Another potential candidate is Gerry Adams, a former Sinn Feín leader, but his age (76) and potential lack of energy for a campaign could be a concern. The search results do not list other candidates running for the presidency of Ireland besides the withdrawn candidacy of Conor McGregor.
The Irish Presidential election needs to be held before 11 November, as Michael D Higgins' 14-year term in office officially ends on that date. Opting against contesting the election may be an easier choice for Mary Lou McDonald now that she has managed to steer the party back up the poll ratings. If she were to run and lose, she and the party would have to decide whether to return to the political fold or retire.
However, the Irish Presidency could provide an exit ramp from the political stage with symbolic significance for McDonald's party. If she were to run and win, she would become the first Sinn Fein president, a significant milestone for the party. The Sinn Feín leadership is planning to meet to discuss a strategy for the Irish Presidential election.
In addition to political figures, some celebrity candidates, such as Riverdance star Michael Flatley and MMA fighter Conor McGregor, have expressed interest in running for the Irish Presidency. The upcoming election promises to be an exciting and unpredictable race.
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