Mary Lou McDonald, the leader of Sinn Fein, officially ruled herself out of becoming the next President of Ireland today during her visit to Stormont. McDonald emphasized that if Sinn Fein chooses to contest the upcoming presidential election, she will not be their candidate. This announcement comes as the party begins deliberations on how to approach the election, although a decision on fielding a candidate has yet to be made.
In a recent media engagement, McDonald also expressed disappointment regarding Conor McGregor's visit to the Oval Office on St. Patrick's Day, which took place on March 17, 2025. She noted that President Donald Trump did not seem aware that Ireland’s greatest fighter is actually two-weight world boxing champion Katie Taylor. McDonald remarked that it was important to recognize Taylor's achievements and contributions to Irish sports.
This consultation with the media occurred in an environment where the political landscape is changing significantly. With President Michael D. Higgins’ second and final term ending on November 11, an election for his successor must be organized within 60 days of his departure. While the poll is expected to take place in late October, McDonald stated that Sinn Fein is engaging in discussions about the election and considering collaborations with other parties. Recently, Taoiseach Micheal Martin had also ruled himself out as a candidate for his party, Fianna Fail.
McDonald underlined the significance of the presidential role: “The position of the first citizen of Uachtaran na hEireann is a very, very important one, not just domestically, but also internationally. And I think there’ll be considerable competition for the post.” These comments underline the crucial nature of the upcoming election.
Amidst speculation that left-leaning parties might support an agreed independent candidate, McDonald acknowledged this was one of the options under consideration for Sinn Fein, although no firm decisions have been made. Speaking specifically on her interest, she cleared the air: “Just to say no, it won’t be me. I want Sinn Fein to be in government in Dublin.” She expressed a firm belief in the party's potential for change in critical areas such as housing and youth opportunities. Moreover, McDonald noted, “we need a change of government, and all of my energy and my effort is towards achieving that.”
In addition to political maneuvers, McDonald faced media questions regarding Sinn Fein’s decision to boycott St. Patrick’s celebrations at the White House. This move was a protest against Trump's policies surrounding the situation in Palestine and Gaza, a stance that McDonald defended. She stated, “The decision not to go to DC this year was a decision not taken lightly. We felt and feel, given the situation in Palestine and Gaza in particular, that we had to take a stand, and that is what we have done.”
The Sinn Fein leader described the relationship between the party and Irish America as “deep and enduring,” asserting that its friends in the United States are sympathetic to the party's stance. McDonald expressed her belief that the party’s relationships would not suffer long-term damage from the boycott.
Taoiseach Micheal Martin criticized the boycott as a “big mistake,” stating that it did not serve the interests of the Northern Irish people. He underscored the extensive efforts made historically by the U.S. to support Sinn Fein, emphasizing the value of maintaining those connections. Notably, the SDLP and Alliance Party also chose to withdraw from the White House festivities in solidarity.
Regarding McGregor's recent accolades, Trump praised the controversial fighter's stature during a meeting with Martin. Days later, McGregor was shown visiting the Oval Office for St. Patrick's Day celebrations—a fact that drew mixed reactions, especially considering McGregor's contested legal troubles. McDonald pointed out the irony: “I thought it was astonishing that there was any confusion as to who Ireland’s greatest fighter is, because it’s clearly Katie Taylor.”
McDonald expressed pride in Taylor's accomplishments, adding, “We know that it is this incredible woman from Bray, County Wicklow, who carries the flag for Irish people everywhere.” The Sinn Fein leader also highlighted Taylor’s upcoming fight in Madison Square Garden as a historic event in Irish sports.
Sinn Fein’s decision to take a firm stand on international issues reflects a commitment to human rights and justice. McDonald reiterated the necessity for the United States to take greater accountability regarding international law, insisting: “The United States needs to stop arming Israeli aggression and move towards an insistence on compliance with the law.” This commentary on international relations showcases Sinn Fein's desire to apply pressure on major global players to respect human rights standards.
The upcoming presidential election, coupled with Sinn Fein's strategic choices in maintaining its importance both domestically and internationally, signals an evolving political reality in Ireland. Mary Lou McDonald's emphasis on solidarity with important issues such as housing and human rights illustrates the party's long-term vision beyond the ballot box, focusing on broader social justice.
