Political party Sinn Féin gathers amidst intensifying competition for the Aras

The Irish political landscape is abuzz with speculation as several parties begin to consider their options for the upcoming presidential election. The incumbent, Michael D Higgins, will step down from office on November 11, marking the end of his 14-year term.

One of the options being considered by Sinn Fein is supporting the left-wing unity candidate, independent Senator Frances Black. However, the party's leadership is planning a meeting to determine a strategy for the election, with the Sinn Fein Ard Chomhairle reviewing the findings of an internal consultation on the election strategy.

Sinn Fein members such as Michelle O'Neill, Donegal TD Pearse Doherty, and Belfast North MP John Finucane are among those considering running for the presidency. Mary Lou McDonald, the Sinn Fein leader, has not ruled herself out of the race, but the risks of running and losing are a consideration. A presidential election could present a perfect exit ramp for McDonald from the political stage, with the symbolism of a Sinn Fein leader moving into Áras an Uachtaráin being significant for her party.

John Finucane, a credible candidate and formidable campaigner, might take some convincing to run for the presidency. Running a Sinn Fein candidate in the election may be the preferred path for the party leadership, but it comes with risks. The last time Sinn Fein fielded a candidate in a presidential election, the result was disappointing, with former party MEP Liadh Ní Riada securing just over 6% of the vote in 2018.

Fianna Fáil, which has not run a presidential candidate since 1997, is still considering its choices. Academic Deirdre Heenan and former Social Democratic and Labour Party leader Colum Eastwood are mentioned as potential candidates. Gerry Adams, former party leader, is also mentioned as a potential candidate, but his age and potential inability to capture the mood of a changed electorate might be a concern.

Independent TD Catherine Connolly has announced her bid for the presidency and is now hoping to secure the backing of Sinn Fein and other left-wing parties. Conor McGregor, the former MMA champion, was a candidate for the presidency of Ireland in 2025 but officially withdrew his candidacy on September 15, 2025.

The cost of running a presidential election campaign is estimated to be more than €400,000 (£349,000), which could be a significant financial burden after the general election. The personality-based nature of a presidential election could be a concern, as it can be a bruising contest for candidates.

Entrepreneur Peter Casey, who came second in 2018, is seeking the nomination again. Some celebrity candidates, such as Riverdance star Michael Flatley and MMA fighter Conor McGregor, have expressed interest in running for the presidency.

If Mary Lou McDonald decides not to run, she may have more to offer and remain her party's greatest asset. The nomination processes for additional candidates may still be ongoing or unspecified, with the Sinn Fein leadership and other parties carefully considering their options.