Cracks show in Donegal after 'Harris hop' as Fine Gael risks losing only seat while Fianna Fail may gain - TG4 poll
Briefly

The TG4 opinion poll indicates a strong chance for Fianna Fáil to secure a second seat in Donegal, buoyed by Pat 'The Cope' Gallagher's return and Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue, who has held his seat since 2011. This report highlights shifts in voter sentiment within the constituency, showcasing the dynamics of political parties as they prepare for election.
Sinn Féin appears to be in a strong position, with finance spokesperson Pearse Doherty polling at a remarkable 22% alongside his running mate Pádraig Mac Lochlainn at 11%. This successful combination of candidates suggests that their strategy of running three members could pay off, especially given that both candidates are likely to benefit from each other's votes, overcoming past electoral challenges resulting from their candidate strategy.
Despite the promising prospects for some parties, the 100% Redress Party, led by Charles Ward, is facing disappointing results, polling at only 6%. The issues surrounding mica defective concrete blocks have been critical in Donegal politics, but this polling suggests that they are not translating into substantial electoral support, which could dampen hope for significant progress on this local issue notwithstanding the challenges faced by 7,000 affected homes.
Fine Gael candidates John McNulty and Senator Nikki Bradley both show at 6% in the latest poll, indicating a struggle for traction in the upcoming election. The 'Harris hop'—a term referring to the strategy of voters transferring support based on perceived viability—does not seem to be favoring these first-time general election candidates, complicating their chances in this competitive constituency.
Read at Irish Independent
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