Voters across the Republic of Ireland will head to the polls on October 24 to elect a new head of state to replace Michael D. Higgins. His replacement will be Ireland’s tenth president since the role of president was established in the 1937 constitution.
Once considered largely ceremonial and “above politics,” the presidency has evolved significantly in recent years. Since Mary Robinson’s landmark election in 1990, campaigns have become increasingly political, combative and unpredictable. This year is no exception. Jim Gavin, one of the three candidates, has already withdrawn from the race – although his name will still be listed on the ballot.
Even before nominations closed, the electorate was entertained for months by speculation about who might or might not run. Names frequently mentioned included celebrities such as mixed martial artist Conor McGregor and dancer Michael Flatley, alongside various politicians such as former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern.
