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Party leaders

Sinn Fein Divided Over Presidential Candidate: A Split between Mary Lou McDonald and Catherine Connolly

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A rift is emerging within Sinn Fein as the party weighs its options for the upcoming presidential election. While the majority of TDs believe the party should back a candidate from the left, opposed to Mary Lou McDonald, there are significant voices within the party who advocate for McDonald to put her name forward. A source within the party estimated that if the parliamentary party were to vote on the issue, there would be a 65-35 percent split in favor of backing a candidate agreed by the left, such as Catherine Connolly, while others believe the split would be closer to 60-40 in favor of McDonald running.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Sinn Fein ard comhairle will discuss presidential plans at a meeting this month, with senior figures believing the majority of members favor backing a candidate of the left.
  • A party source estimated a 65-35 percent split in favor of backing a candidate agreed by the left, such as Catherine Connolly, if the parliamentary party's preferences were tallied.
  • Some TDs argued McDonald would make a formidable candidate, and Michelle O'Neill or Mary Lou herself would have a good chance of winning.
  • Local rural party members perceive the discussion as not grounded in reality, and that McDonald would never run as a candidate.
  • The party is expected to wait until August to announce its intentions.
  • Catherine Connolly has formally launched her candidacy, welcoming the backing of Sinn Fein.
  • Connolly has also made a presentation to the Labour Party, seeking their support.

Statistics:

  • 65-35 percent estimated split in favor of backing a candidate agreed by the left, such as Catherine Connolly.
  • 60-40 percent estimated split in favor of McDonald running as a candidate.
  • Sinn Fein is planning to announce its intentions in August.

Sources:

  • Maria Lally, "Sinn Féin members divide over Mary Lou candidacy," The Sunday Times, 2023.
  • "Catherine Connolly launches presidential campaign," RTÉ News, 2023.
  • "Labour to launch consultative process on presidential candidate," Irish Examiner, 2023.
  • "Fine Gael nominates Mairead McGuinness for presidency," Irish Independent, 2023.

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