Maria Steen Seeks Last-Minute Support for Presidential Bid

Maria Steen, a conservative campaigner and member of the Iona Institute, is striving to secure a position on the ballot for the upcoming presidential election scheduled for next month. Despite facing challenges in garnering necessary support, she expressed optimism about her chances as the nomination deadline approaches.

As of Wednesday at noon, Steen requires the backing of three more members of the Oireachtas—either TDs or senators—to achieve the threshold of 20 nominations. On Tuesday, she received a boost when four Independent Ireland TDs, including Marian Harkin and Danny Healy-Rae, publicly committed to supporting her candidacy, increasing her total to 17 nominations. Supporters in Leinster House indicated that an 18th politician might also be willing to join her campaign.

Steen emphasized the urgency of her situation, stating, “time is running out” to gather the needed endorsements. She remains hopeful and has actively engaged with various members of the Oireachtas to find additional supporters. “I’m happy to take a nomination from anybody who’s willing to give it to me,” she added, expressing her willingness to converse with anyone who might assist her in this endeavor.

Despite this surge of support, Steen’s campaign encountered setbacks as several key senators declined to endorse her. Senator Gerard Craughwell, who previously met with Steen, acknowledged her merits but stated he could not support her candidacy at this time. Likewise, Senator Michael McDowell, known for his previous collaboration with Steen on campaigns, has not engaged with her supporters, leaving her hopeful yet uncertain about his potential backing.

While Steen’s campaign has gained traction, she faces hurdles in the form of endorsements that have yet to materialize. Senators Aubrey McCarthy and Victor Boyhan publicly declined to support her, despite an extensive lobbying effort by her supporters via social media. Minister of State Michael Healy-Rae had agreed to sign her nomination papers, but other government-supporting colleagues, including Seán Canney, Noel Grealish, and Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran, have refrained from doing so.

In a separate issue, Steen addressed her connection to Kieran Kelly, a right-wing environmentalist, who allegedly discussed other candidates in relation to her campaign. She clarified that during their conversation, no references to fellow candidate Jim Gavin were made, insisting that she has received numerous calls from individuals she does not know.

As the deadline looms, Steen continues her efforts to rally support for her presidential bid, emphasizing her openness to discussions with any potential backers. “There are still a few Independent senators that I haven’t yet met,” she remarked, highlighting her proactive approach to securing the necessary nominations. With time running short, Steen remains determined to navigate the challenges ahead in her quest for the presidency.