Simon Harris Criticizes Conor McGregor’s Presidential Aspirations

Conor McGregor faces significant challenges in his bid for a presidential nomination, according to Irish Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris. During a press briefing in Britain on March 15, 2024, Harris stated that McGregor, the former mixed martial arts champion, “represents the very worst of us” and has “a negligible chance” of securing the necessary endorsements to appear on the ballot for the upcoming presidential election.

Harris’s remarks come after McGregor publicly announced his intention to seek nominations from local councillors, which is one of the requirements to enter the presidential race. To qualify, candidates must obtain endorsements from 20 members of the Oireachtas or from four local authorities. McGregor has urged his supporters to lobby local councillors for their backing, emphasizing that such endorsements could pave the way for his candidacy.

In recent years, McGregor has faced serious legal issues, including a civil rape case in which he was found liable. “Conor McGregor is a person who has been found responsible for rape in a civil court in Ireland. That’s a statement of fact,” Harris said, highlighting the implications of McGregor’s past on his suitability for the presidency. The deputy prime minister underscored that McGregor does not embody the values that many Irish citizens would expect from their leader.

In response, McGregor defended his campaign, asserting that it addresses issues relevant to the majority of the Irish populace. He accused Harris of attempting to tarnish his reputation by referencing the civil trial and claimed that such tactics would not distract from the record of broken promises attributed to the current leadership. “He’s completely out of touch and will be remembered as a failed leader. He must resign, and when I take the presidency, I’ll ensure accountability,” McGregor stated.

In a separate political development, former TD Marc MacSharry has initiated discussions with local councillors regarding a potential presidential run by musician and activist Bob Geldof. After leaving politics, MacSharry established a consultancy firm, Pontis Advisory Ltd, and has been surveying councillors about their willingness to support Geldof’s potential candidacy.

Some councillors in Kerry have reported being contacted by MacSharry to gauge interest in supporting Geldof. While Geldof has not formally announced his candidacy, recent conversations with Taoiseach Micheál Martin suggest he is considering a run. Martin has expressed his preference for former Dublin GAA manager Jim Gavin as Fianna Fáil’s candidate.

Geldof’s possible entry into the presidential race has drawn varied reactions. Although he has not appeared on any official lists of candidates seeking to address councillors, discussions surrounding his potential nomination are ongoing. One councillor, Charlie Farrelly, confirmed receiving a call from MacSharry about supporting Geldof but indicated he would not endorse the musician.

MacSharry declined to provide details about his communications with councillors or the nature of his research, citing confidentiality associated with his consultancy’s clients. The political landscape is evolving as several independent candidates, including businessman Gareth Sheridan and former solicitor Nick Delehanty, are expected to address Kerry County Council in the coming days.

As the Irish presidential election approaches, the nomination process remains a focal point for both established political figures and independent candidates. The actions and statements of prominent individuals like McGregor and Geldof will likely shape the dynamics of the race as they seek to garner support from local authorities and the public.