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Dublin, Ireland — Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald has refused to rule herself out of the 2025 presidential election, as political parties and independents begin to position themselves for what is shaping up to be a competitive race to succeed President Michael D. Higgins.
Speaking over the weekend, McDonald confirmed that Sinn Féin is still deliberating whether to nominate its own candidate or support a broader left-wing contender. “We’re not ruling anything in or anything out,” she said, adding that the party’s decision will be made in September. She acknowledged personal reflection but emphasized that the focus remains on party-wide discussions.
The election, due to take place by 11 November 2025, marks the end of President Higgins’s second and final term. So far, Independent TD Catherine Connolly has formally launched her campaign, backed by the Social Democrats, Labour, People Before Profit, and several independents.
Fine Gael’s initial frontrunner, former EU Commissioner Mairead McGuinness, withdrew from the race citing health concerns. Her departure has prompted speculation around alternative candidates, including Minister Heather Humphreys and MEP Seán Kelly, both of whom are reportedly reconsidering bids.
Other names floated in recent months include businessman Gareth Sheridan, who has declared his intention to run, and singer-turned-senator Frances Black, whose potential candidacy has drawn public interest. Former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and legal expert Michael McDowell have also been mentioned as possible entrants, though neither has confirmed their intentions.
McDonald stressed the importance of the campaign as a platform for broader societal dialogue, beyond the confines of a general election. “The campaign should be about the vision candidates have, the country we want, and the values we subscribe to,” she said, while acknowledging that current public attention is focused on pressing issues such as the cost-of-living crisis and education expenses.
With nominations closing in early autumn, the coming weeks are expected to bring clarity and momentum to a race that remains wide open.
Mary Lou McDonald TD Picture by Sinn Féin
