In early September 2025, Ireland was taken by surprise when 37-year-old Conor McGregor announced his candidacy for president.
Conor McGregor’s Surprise Campaign Move
The former UFC champion released a video outside the Government Buildings in Dublin, declaring that the country needed real change. His move came just weeks before the October 24 election, with the nomination deadline of September 24 fast approaching.
To get on the ballot, candidates need support from at least 20 members of the Oireachtas or four local councils. At present, McGregor has neither. This makes his run an uphill battle. Despite these hurdles, his campaign grabbed global headlines almost immediately.
The attention grew even larger when tech billionaire Elon Musk publicly supported McGregor’s bid. The endorsement gave his campaign international visibility, but also stirred debate in Ireland. Many saw echoes of Donald Trump’s populist style in McGregor’s words and actions.
Donald Trump Echoes in Campaign Style
McGregor’s campaign has been fueled by social media, similar to how Trump once relied on it during his presidential runs. On September 3, he posted a video online outside Government Buildings. In it, he spoke directly to viewers, calling child homelessness in Ireland a disgrace and accusing the government of failing its people.
The video quickly spread online after Musk reposted it with praise, saying no one would fight harder for Ireland than McGregor. The pair even shared a FaceTime call, which McGregor described as “Superman level.”
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Much like Trump’s attempts to connect with everyday workers, McGregor has taken symbolic steps to show he is part of ordinary life. He poured drinks behind the bar at his own pub, the Black Forge Inn in Dublin, and shared the photos online with the message that working people are the true heroes.
This strategy mirrors Trump’s past campaigns, where he visited diners, posed for selfies, and made direct, emotional appeals to the public. McGregor has followed that pattern with direct language and populist slogans. On September 4, he told supporters, “We reward effort, not entitlement. Watch me.” His style is built on short, sharp promises meant to energize voters.
Political Pushback and Rising Controversy
While McGregor’s campaign has attracted massive attention, it has also faced strong resistance. Ireland’s ruling party instructed its 246 councillors not to nominate independent candidates, including McGregor. This decision makes it nearly impossible for him to qualify unless other local councils break ranks and support him.
Adding to his struggles are his past legal issues. In August 2025, a civil liability ruling confirmed he must pay damages and costs linked to a sexual assault case. This has fueled arguments that he is not suitable to be head of state.
Government ministers have publicly voiced doubts, with some calling Musk’s endorsement bizarre and reminding voters that only Irish citizens can decide their leader.
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Despite the criticism, McGregor is pressing ahead. He has sent letters to councils in counties like Roscommon, Waterford, Leitrim, Dublin, and Donegal, asking for their backing. So far, there is no clear sign of widespread political support.
Even with these roadblocks, his campaign remains a talking point across the country and abroad. The blend of celebrity power, high-profile international backing, and populist messaging has made his bid one of the most controversial stories in Irish politics this year.
