Mary Lou McDonald rules herself out of Irish presidential election

"PA Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald has ruled herself out of running in the Irish presidential election. Speaking on RTE's Morning Ireland, she said her name is "no longer in the mix" and that she needs to "lead from the front" while in opposition. She refused to rule out Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O'Neill as a potential candidate, but added that "we have options" and "everything is still in play"."

"She confirmed that the party's process of selecting a candidate for the presidential election was "still under way", and that a "final proposition" will be brought to members on 20 September. She added: "We still have the option of a Sinn Fein candidate or backing another". "Catherine Connolly is the candidate now in the field and certainly, prior to going to the Ard Chomhairle, we will look to meet with Catherine and her campaign team.""

Mary Lou McDonald ruled herself out of running in the Irish presidential election, saying her name is "no longer in the mix" and that she must "lead from the front" while in opposition. She did not rule out Michelle O'Neill as a potential candidate and said "we have options" and "everything is still in play." Sinn Féin's candidate selection process remains under way with a "final proposition" to members on 20 September. The party may run a Sinn Féin candidate or back another. Catherine Connolly is currently a candidate in the field and meetings with her campaign are planned. Twelve potential independent candidates are expected to seek support from Kerry County Council. The president of Ireland serves as head of state in a largely ceremonial role. Only citizens residing in the Republic have the right to vote. Candidates must be Irish citizens aged over 35 and require backing of members of the Oireachtas.

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