Aontú Leader Seeks Independent Presidential Candidate Backing
Aontú leader Peadar Tóibín is working to secure support for an Independent candidate in next month’s presidential election,hoping a nominee will be decided at a special caucus next Thursday. The initiative aims to present a center-right viewpoint on the ballot.
Up to three potential candidates,including conservative campaigner Maria Steen,are expected to be interviewed by members of the group to determine if they will receive support in gaining a place on the ballot paper. Tóibín stated he anticipates having at least 14 TDs and Senators publicly backing the effort by next week. To officially contest the election, an Independent candidate requires the support of a minimum of 20 members of the Oireachtas.
Tóibín indicated he expects Independent TDs and Senators to publicly declare their support for a candidate regardless of whether the 20-backer threshold is met, aiming to build momentum and encourage undecided politicians to declare their positions.
he identified two strong contenders for the group’s backing, naming Steen as one. While declining to reveal the identity of the other,sources suggest businessman Declan Ganley,who has not yet announced a candidacy,is a possibility.Independent Senator Joe Conway, not among the initial ten TDs and Senators supporting Tóibín’s initiative, described the idea as “eminently reasonable,” believing it would broaden voter choice.He also suggested other caucuses could form to propose candidates with differing viewpoints. Conway emphasized the importance of utilizing the privilege to propose candidates rather then complaining about limited options.
Maria Steen announced her interest in running for the presidency last week and has begun discussions with politicians regarding her potential candidacy. She was actively involved in the campaign against last year’s failed family and care referendums and is a member of the Iona Institute, a Catholic advocacy group. Steen has publicly opposed the lifting of constitutional bans on abortion and same-sex marriage, as well as expressing concerns regarding divorce and assisted dying.
Currently a stay-at-home mother while also being a qualified barrister, Steen is simultaneously lobbying local authorities for support, as securing the backing of four local authorities also qualifies an Independent candidate for ballot access. Independent senator Sharon Keogan has publicly named Steen as one of five Independent candidates she would support.
Independent Senator Ronan Mullen stated he would not be offering his support to any candidate at this time, but described Steen as a “valued friend” and predicted she would be a “formidable” candidate.
