Irish presidential candidate Gareth Sheridan’s campaign ends after Offaly Council rejected his nomination, leaving him short of required support.

Irish presidential candidate Gareth Sheridan’s bid faces a major setback after Offaly County Council rejected his nomination, effectively ending his campaign despite securing two of the four required nominations. Sheridan, an independent, criticized Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil for coordinating to block local authority nominations, calling the move undemocratic and damaging to electoral integrity. His campaign had hoped to gain support from Independent Ireland TDs to reach the 20-nomination threshold, but the outcome hinges on a Tuesday meeting. Meanwhile, Catherine Connolly launched her campaign focusing on neutrality, Palestine, and social justice. The race is now expected to feature three candidates unless Steen secures additional backing.