Independent presidential hopeful Maria Steen is now just two nominations short of the 20 required from Oireachtas members (TDs and Senators) to appear on the 2025 presidential ballot. As the deadline looms at noon today, reports confirm Steen has secured 18 nominations, including a key backing from Senator Aubrey McCarthy.
Steen, a barrister known for her conservative views, has been engaging with independents and smaller parties to close the gap. Recently, she told RTÉ: “I think today we made good progress. I was at 12 this morning, and I’m now at 17 this afternoon, and I am hoping to get to 20 before the end of the evening.” She also said: “The truth is I am happy to take a nomination from anybody who’s willing to give it to me, and I am available to talk to everybody and meet if they would like to.”
Her campaign has gained momentum in recent days. Independent TDs and Senators, plus figures from Independent Ireland and other smaller parties, have pledged support. However, according to reports, Steen still lacks the endorsements of enough members of the major parties to guarantee her place on the ballot.
If Steen fails to secure the final two nominations by midday, she will be unable to contest the election formally. That would leave the official field smaller, potentially limiting voter choice in next month’s race.
Timeline of Key Developments
| August 2025 | Maria Steen confirms intention to run for presidency. |
| Early–mid September | Steen begins gathering support among independent TDs/Senators. |
| Tuesday, Sept 23 | Steen reports she has 17 nominations; voices hope to reach 20. |
| Wednesday, Sept 24 | Senator Aubrey McCarthy confirms his nomination bringing her to 18; two more needed before the 12pm nomination deadline. |
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