The Daily Star Ireland
The Social Democrats have officially endorsed Independent TD Catherine Connolly as their nominee for the Irish presidency, following a unanimous decision by the party’s National Executive. The announcement marks a significant step in what is shaping up to be a dynamic race for Áras an Uachtaráin, with various parties and individuals yet to declare their positions.
Connolly’s Candidacy Gains Ground Across the Left
In a statement released after the decision, the Social Democrats praised Connolly for her consistent dedication to progressive values, calling her “a tireless advocate for progressive causes” and voicing strong confidence in her potential as a future President of Ireland. According to the party, the move reflects widespread backing for Connolly among both elected officials and the party’s grassroots base.
Connolly, who represents Galway West as an Independent TD, confirmed to RTÉ News that she will formally launch her presidential bid next week. She noted that her campaign is “already taking shape,” signaling that groundwork and political coordination are already underway.
While political parties can directly nominate a candidate, independent aspirants like Connolly also have the option of securing a nomination via support from at least four local authorities. Connolly’s growing coalition may help her reach that threshold.
Social Democrats Deputy Leader Cian O’Callaghan welcomed the development, expressing enthusiasm over Connolly’s candidacy. Fellow party TD Jennifer Whitmore echoed this sentiment, describing Connolly as an “incredible left-wing politician” who would be an “incredible president.” Speaking on RTÉ’s Today with Claire Byrne, Whitmore added that Connolly appears to have the backing not only of the Social Democrats but also of Solidarity–People Before Profit and several other independents.
Whitmore admitted it is unclear whether Connolly has officially reached the required 20 Oireachtas signatures yet, but she emphasized the need for other left-leaning parties to consolidate their support behind her. “That would certainly secure that position for her,” she said, pointing to Connolly’s reputation for integrity and consistent progressive advocacy.
Support Building But No Unified Left Yet
Gary Gannon, another Social Democrats TD, highlighted Connolly’s parliamentary credentials, calling her “an extremely effective parliamentarian” both in the Dáil and on committees. He acknowledged that many party councillors have shown interest in backing Connolly but said it is still too soon to determine if formal guidance will be issued on this.
Speaking to News At One, Gannon emphasized that Connolly is a strong contender on her own merit and expressed hope she could emerge as the unified candidate of the Irish left. “I hope Catherine is a unified left candidate. That’s what a lot of people contacting our offices want,” he noted.
Still, Gannon clarified that whether other parties like Sinn Féin join the endorsement remains to be seen. “That’s up to them,” he said, indicating that broader consensus on a left-wing candidacy is still evolving.
Larger Parties Stay Quiet as Presidential Field Develops
While Connolly’s candidacy continues to gain traction among smaller and left-leaning factions, Ireland’s major parties have yet to confirm their own nominees. Fianna Fáil TD and former government minister Mary Hanafin has previously expressed interest in running, citing her 30 years of public service as a compelling asset. Her colleague Niall Collins said the party would clarify its position by September and is taking its time to weigh potential candidates.
On the Fine Gael front, the deadline for expressions of interest falls on Tuesday. Thus far, Mairead McGuinness appears to be the leading name under consideration, with no other major contenders officially in the running. Notably, Fine Gael MEP Seán Kelly recently ruled himself out, telling Morning Ireland that while he had considered the move carefully, he ultimately decided not to run—calling it “the most difficult decision” of his political career.
Sinn Féin, meanwhile, remains undecided. The party has “not ruled out” putting forward its leader, Mary Lou McDonald, as a candidate. Meanwhile, veteran broadcaster Joe Duffy has dismissed the possibility of entering the race, confirming that he is not considering a bid for the presidency.
