Political party Fine Gael resumes acceptance of candidate nominations for the upcoming presidential election
Fine Gael Announces Two Main Contenders for 2025 Irish Presidential Election
The upcoming 2025 Irish presidential election is shaping up to be an exciting race, with two potential Fine Gael candidates emerging as the frontrunners. Heather Humphreys and Seán Kelly have confirmed their bids, following the reopening of the Fine Gael nomination on 18 August.
Heather Humphreys
Heather Humphreys, a former social protection minister, has a rich political history. She has previously held ministerial roles in Social Protection, Rural Development, Arts, and Justice, as well as serving as the deputy leader of the Fine Gael Party. Humphreys retired from politics after the last general election but reconsidered running following Mairead McGuinness’s withdrawal due to health issues. Humphreys is seen as a strong candidate with support from figures within Fine Gael as well as some outside the party. Her return would be notable as she was previously a prominent minister and has a strong grassroots connection.
Seán Kelly
Seán Kelly, an MEP for Ireland South and a former GAA president, is another high-profile candidate. He initially ruled out a run but reversed that decision following McGuinness’s exit. Kelly is recognized as a high-profile candidate with a large personal vote from European elections (over 127,000 votes). His experience as an MEP and his local popularity have encouraged him to compete for the Fine Gael nomination.
The Fine Gael selection process will involve nominations from parliamentary party members, councillors, and the party executive. If multiple candidates secure enough nominations, a convention may be held. The aim is to have a candidate in place by mid-September, in plenty of time for the election.
Other Candidates
Independent TD Catherine Connolly and businessman Gareth Sheridan are other candidates who have launched a bid. Nominations will open at 12pm tomorrow and close at noon on 2 September.
Withdrawal of Mairead McGuinness
Mairead McGuinness, a previous candidate, announced her withdrawal from the race last Thursday due to health reasons following a stay in the hospital. The Executive Council extended their best wishes to McGuinness, hoping to see her back involved in the party again in the future. Tánaiste Simon Harris thanked McGuinness for her "incredible public service".
Support for Heather Humphreys
Several TDs have voiced their support for Humphreys. Frances Fitzgerald, a former Fine Gael MEP, said Humphreys would have her "full support" if she were to run for Áras an Uachtaráin. Tánaiste Simon Harris has stated that over the next two weeks, there will be an opportunity for people to come forward and engage with party members to seek the Fine Gael nomination.
As the race heats up, both Humphreys and Kelly are believed to be seriously re-considering a presidential bid. The next few weeks are expected to be filled with political intrigue as the Fine Gael party decides on its candidate for the 2025 Irish presidential election.
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