Conor McGregor’s desire to become President of his native Ireland has, as expected, hit a snag.
As multiple political commentators and media outlets (including this one) previously noted, McGregor’s political aspirations appeared likely to fail given the prerequisites for running for President in Ireland. Those include a minimum age to run for President in Ireland (35, which McGregor has passed), plus being nominated by at least 20 members of the Oireachtas (parliament of Ireland), and four local authorities (including city councils, fire authorities, etc).
Those nominations were always going to be hard to come by for McGregor, who despite being MMA’s biggest star his been a polarizing figure at home — especially after being found legally liable in a civil trial surrounding a sexual assault allegation.
In lieu of the required nominations, it appears Conor McGregor is appealing directly to the people, launching a petition (via Change.org) asking for support in bypassing the nomination requirements.
“I propose a petition advocating for a modification of the nomination process to allow my name be included on the ballot. I contend that the citizens of Ireland, both at home and abroad, should have the unhindered right to determine the candidates who appear on the presidential ballot,” wrote McGregor in his petition. “Therefore, I implore you to join me in this endeavor by signing this petition. Your support will be instrumental in championing a more inclusive and democratic electoral process, thereby empowering the people of Ireland to shape their own future.”
As of this writing, McGregor’s petition has fewer than 8,000 signatures. The Irish star has had his eye on politics for some time now, with talks of running for President heating up this past March and in the months since.
