“The Time For Real Change Is Now!” – Conor McGregor Urges Irish To Lobby Councillors For Presidential Bid

Published September 7, 2025

Former MMA champion Conor McGregor has urged his online supporters to pressure local councillors into nominating him as a candidate for the Irish presidency.

Conor McGregor’s Presidential Bid: What We Know

1. Announcement and Appeal to Public (Early September 2025):

Conor McGregor officially declared his intention to run for President of Ireland in the 2025 election scheduled for October 24. The announcement came in dramatic fashion on September 4, 2025, when he released a video filmed outside the Government Buildings in Dublin. Standing before the seat of Irish political power, McGregor delivered a fiery message, calling for “real change” and urging ordinary citizens to demand that their local county councillors nominate him for the ballot.

Unlike career politicians who rely on established party networks, McGregor positioned himself as an outsider, directly appealing to the Irish public to pressure political representatives into action. His call-to-arms was strategic: under Irish law, presidential hopefuls must secure endorsements from either 20 members of the Oireachtas (Parliament) or 4 of Ireland’s 31 local councils. Without these nominations, McGregor cannot even appear on the ballot.

In his address, McGregor framed his candidacy as a movement against the political elite. He railed against issues such as mass immigration, child homelessness, and the decline of Irish tourism, portraying himself as a straight-talking, solution-driven figure willing to speak truth to power. He further pledged that, if elected, he would not sign any legislation into law without first holding a public referendum—a radical promise that appealed to those who feel disconnected from traditional politics.

The timing of the announcement was also significant. With the nomination deadline approaching later in September, McGregor’s call for grassroots mobilization was a last-ditch attempt to generate momentum and force councillors to act. His decision to stage the announcement in Dublin, the heart of political authority, underscored both the theatrical and confrontational style that has long defined his public persona.

While the political establishment largely dismissed his move as unrealistic, McGregor’s announcement immediately captured global media coverage. Clips of his speech circulated widely on social media, amplified by endorsements from high-profile figures like Elon Musk and Donald Trump, ensuring his campaign reached far beyond Ireland’s borders.

2. Campaign Messaging and Themes:

Conor McGregor’s presidential messaging is anchored in populist, anti-establishment rhetoric that sets him apart from Ireland’s traditional political class. His campaign appeals to frustration over social and economic challenges, while also leveraging his celebrity persona to present himself as a bold, unapologetic alternative.

1. Immigration and National Identity
   McGregor has made mass immigration a centerpiece of his message, arguing that uncontrolled migration is straining Irish housing, welfare, and cultural identity. He frames this issue as evidence of the government’s failure to prioritize its own citizens. His blunt and confrontational tone resonates with segments of the public who feel the political mainstream avoids addressing immigration head-on.

2. Housing and Child Homelessness
   He highlights Ireland’s ongoing housing crisis and the rise of child homelessness, portraying these as moral failings of the political establishment. By connecting these issues to broader critiques of government mismanagement, McGregor positions himself as the candidate who will put “Irish families first.”

3. Economic and Tourism Decline
   McGregor also points to the decline in Irish tourism, claiming government policies have weakened one of Ireland’s key industries. His campaign paints him as a pragmatic figure focused on restoring national pride, economic vitality, and Ireland’s global image.

4. Direct Democracy Pledge
   A signature theme of McGregor’s run is his promise to submit all legislation to public referendum before signing it into law. While the Irish presidency is a largely ceremonial role, this vow reflects his push for greater direct democracy and a stronger voice for ordinary citizens. It also reflects his combative stance against Ireland’s political elites, whom he accuses of ignoring the public will.

5. Image as a “Solution-Driven Man”
   McGregor emphasizes that he is not a polished politician, but a fighter—a man of action rather than words. This theme plays into his global reputation as a UFC champion, blending toughness and charisma with a narrative of defending ordinary people against entrenched powers.

6. Anti-Elite, Populist Framing
   Throughout his campaign, McGregor portrays himself as Ireland’s champion against a detached establishment. His slogans and statements are laced with calls for “real change now,” signaling urgency and aligning with broader European populist currents.

3. Nomination Hurdles:

While Conor McGregor’s campaign announcement generated global headlines, the reality of Ireland’s electoral process poses a formidable barrier. Under the Irish Constitution, presidential candidates cannot simply declare their candidacy—they must first secure official endorsements. Specifically, there are two possible routes:

1. Oireachtas Route – Obtain the backing of at least 20 members of the Oireachtas (Ireland’s Parliament, made up of the Dáil and the Seanad).

2. Council Route – Gain the formal nomination of at least 4 of Ireland’s 31 local authorities (county or city councils).

For outsiders like McGregor, the council route is often seen as more achievable, since parliamentary support is typically reserved for established political figures. However, even this path is steep. Local councillors are wary of being seen as endorsing a polarizing figure, and the major parties often issue internal directives against nominating non-party candidates.

Adding to the challenge is the tight deadline: nominations must be submitted by late September, only weeks after McGregor’s announcement. That leaves him little time to rally councillors, many of whom remain skeptical of his seriousness and credentials.

Bookmakers and political analysts have already rated his chances as extremely slim, with odds reported as high as 100-to-1. To date, there is no evidence that McGregor has secured any formal commitments from councillors or parliamentarians. Without this critical step, his campaign risks collapsing before it even reaches the ballot stage.

This structural barrier underscores a key reality: McGregor’s candidacy may succeed in shaping debate and drawing attention, but unless he can navigate Ireland’s nomination system, his name will not appear on the official ballot come October 24. In that sense, the nomination rules serve as a stress test for how far celebrity influence and populist mobilization can actually penetrate Ireland’s political institutions.

4. High-Profile Endorsements:

Despite the steep road to securing a ballot spot, Conor McGregor’s presidential bid has already attracted global attention and high-profile backing—something few Irish candidates can claim.

1. Elon Musk’s Signal Boost
   Tech billionaire Elon Musk amplified McGregor’s campaign when he shared the fighter’s announcement video on X (formerly Twitter). Musk’s repost came with words of encouragement, framing McGregor as a disruptive force who could challenge political complacency. While Musk’s support has no direct influence on Irish councillors or parliamentary members, it gave McGregor’s campaign international visibility and bolstered his anti-establishment image.

2. Donald Trump’s Endorsement
   Former U.S. President Donald Trump also expressed support for McGregor, praising his toughness and outsider status. Trump’s nod carries symbolic weight, drawing parallels between McGregor’s insurgent run and Trump’s own unconventional rise in American politics. However, Trump’s endorsement is a double-edged sword: while it energizes McGregor’s global fan base, it risks alienating Irish voters wary of American-style populism.

3. Social Media Influence
   McGregor’s announcement was widely circulated across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X, where clips of his fiery appeal to councillors drew millions of views. Celebrity endorsements and viral attention turned his campaign into an international talking point, even if the institutional barriers in Ireland remain daunting.

4. Public vs. Political Endorsements
   While celebrity support has boosted his media profile, McGregor still lacks what truly matters: institutional endorsements from Irish councillors or parliamentarians. High-profile figures abroad may amplify his message, but only elected officials at home can nominate him. This disconnect highlights the tension between global fame and local political legitimacy.

In sum, endorsements from figures like Musk and Trump elevate McGregor’s candidacy from a local Irish story to a global spectacle, but they do little to solve his most pressing problem: winning over Ireland’s political gatekeepers.

5. Political and Public Pushback:

While Conor McGregor’s announcement generated huge buzz worldwide, the response inside Ireland has been far more skeptical—and at times outright hostile.

1. Dismissal from Political Leaders
   Senior Irish politicians, including Tánaiste (Deputy Prime Minister) Micheál Martin, publicly stated that McGregor has a “negligible chance” of securing the required nominations. Many councillors have been cautious, signaling reluctance to attach their names to a candidate viewed as volatile and controversial. The political establishment sees his campaign as more spectacle than substance, with some officials labeling it a “publicity stunt.”

2. Criticism from the Media
   Prominent Irish newspapers and commentators have framed McGregor’s bid as a “dangerous circus” that risks trivializing the presidency. Editorials warn that his combative style and history of legal troubles could undermine the dignity of an office that has traditionally been symbolic, unifying, and non-partisan. The Irish Examiner even cautioned that his candidacy threatens to turn the race into a “celebrity sideshow” rather than a serious contest.

3. Public Opinion Split
   Among ordinary citizens, reactions are mixed. Some supporters, particularly younger voters and those critical of immigration policy, view McGregor as a refreshing outsider who is unafraid to say what others won’t. Others, however, see him as unfit for office, citing his criminal record, past controversies—including civil cases and violent outbursts—and lack of political experience. The divide reflects broader tensions in Ireland over populism, national identity, and political accountability.

4. Concerns About Reputation
   Critics also warn that McGregor’s candidacy, amplified by endorsements from figures like Elon Musk and Donald Trump, could harm Ireland’s international image. Instead of being seen as a stable democracy, Ireland risks being portrayed as vulnerable to celebrity-driven populism—something many in the political class are eager to avoid.

In short, the political establishment is united in skepticism, the media is largely critical, and the Irish public remains divided. While McGregor has captured global attention, at home he faces an uphill battle against entrenched skepticism and a reputation that many view as incompatible with the presidency.

6. Context & Background:

Conor McGregor’s presidential ambitions cannot be separated from his unique public profile and controversial history, which shape both the excitement and skepticism surrounding his bid.

1. From UFC Champion to Global Celebrity
   McGregor rose to fame as one of the most successful and flamboyant fighters in UFC history, becoming the first man to hold titles in two weight classes simultaneously. His charisma, trash talk, and larger-than-life persona made him a global sports icon and one of the highest-paid athletes in the world. His reputation as a fighter who “never backs down” now forms the backbone of his political branding.

2. Legal Troubles and Scandals
   Alongside fame came controversy. McGregor has faced multiple run-ins with the law, including assault charges, public altercations, and traffic offenses. More damaging were serious allegations of sexual assault: in November 2024, he lost a civil rape case, and his appeal was dismissed in August 2025. These rulings have cast a long shadow over his public image, giving his critics ammunition to question his moral fitness for high office.

3. Political Views and Populist Shift
   In recent years, McGregor has increasingly used his platform to comment on politics and social issues. His posts on immigration, crime, and government failures positioned him within the populist, anti-establishment camp. His messaging often mirrors broader European populist movements—tough on immigration, skeptical of elites, and focused on defending national identity.

4. Track Record in Public Influence
   McGregor’s celebrity has previously intersected with politics and social debates in Ireland. For example, his outspoken criticism of government COVID-19 policies and public housing failures earned him both praise and backlash. His willingness to step into heated debates shows a longstanding interest in shaping public discourse, even before his presidential announcement.

5. A Double-Edged Persona
   To supporters, McGregor is a fighter for the people, someone who knows hardship and success, and who can channel his determination into political leadership. To critics, he is a reckless showman with too many personal scandals to hold the dignity of Ireland’s highest office. This stark divide explains both the excitement his candidacy generated and the swift backlash it provoked.

6. The Role of the Presidency
   It’s important to note that the Irish presidency is largely ceremonial, serving as a symbol of unity, culture, and moral leadership. While the president has certain constitutional powers, the role is not designed for radical policymaking. McGregor’s fiery campaign promises—such as subjecting all legislation to referenda—clash with the traditional non-partisan spirit of the office, raising questions about whether he fully grasps or respects the institution he seeks to lead.

Implications of Conor McGregor’s Presidential Run

1. Political System Stress-Test

McGregor’s attempt highlights how high-profile outsiders can pressure traditional political structures. Even if unsuccessful, his campaign tests whether celebrity influence and populist rhetoric can bypass Ireland’s nomination hurdles. It may spark future debates on whether the system is too restrictive—or too vulnerable to media-driven campaigns.

2. Populism vs. Establishment

His rhetoric—anti-immigration, critical of government spending, and focused on “real change”—echoes broader European populist trends. If McGregor gains traction, it could embolden other anti-establishment figures in Ireland to enter politics, shifting the Overton window on topics like immigration and housing.

3. Cultural Impact & Public Engagement

McGregor is a global celebrity with massive social media reach. His bid could increase political engagement among younger voters or those usually disengaged from Irish politics. However, it also risks turning the presidency into a popularity contest rather than a serious institution, undermining its symbolic neutrality.

4. International Attention & Reputation

The run already grabbed global headlines—especially with Elon Musk and Donald Trump chiming in. While this amplifies Ireland on the world stage, it also risks portraying Irish politics as chaotic or circus-like. That could affect Ireland’s international image as a stable democracy.

5. Impact on Presidential Institution

The Irish presidency is largely ceremonial but symbolically powerful. If McGregor somehow succeeded, his controversial history and combative style could drastically alter how the role is perceived—potentially politicizing an office traditionally above partisan disputes.

6. Legal & Social Backlash

McGregor’s past legal troubles and accusations will remain in the spotlight. Even if he loses, the campaign could deepen social divides, polarizing debates around crime, immigration, and national identity. Critics already frame his run as opportunistic, while supporters see him as a “voice of the people.”

7. Future Political Pathways

Even if he doesn’t make the ballot, this campaign could be a trial balloon. McGregor might pivot into forming or backing a political movement, similar to how other celebrity figures worldwide have shifted from sports/entertainment into politics.

 Overall Takeaway:

Conor McGregor’s entry into the Irish presidential race is far more symbolic than practical. While his chances of securing the necessary nominations remain slim, his campaign has already disrupted the political conversation—forcing debates on immigration, housing, and government accountability into the spotlight. By leveraging his celebrity status and populist messaging, McGregor has managed to energize certain segments of the public and attract international attention, even if much of the political establishment remains dismissive.

Whether viewed as a publicity stunt, a populist wave, or a genuine call for reform, McGregor’s bid underscores the growing influence of outsider figures in modern democracies. Even if his name never appears on the ballot, the cultural and political aftershocks of his candidacy will likely linger—challenging Ireland’s political class to confront issues that many voters feel have long been ignored.

SOURCES: ZEROHEDGE – “The Time For Real Change Is Now!” – Conor McGregor Urges Irish To Lobby Councillors For Presidential Bid

WLT REPORT – UFC Fighter Conor McGregor Sets Sights On Becoming Ireland’s President

MMA MANIA – Not so nominated — Conor McGregor calls for Irish council support amidst 100-1 presidential odds

THE TIMES OF INDIA – Elon Musk and Conor McGregor form unlikely alliance shaking up Ireland’s prsidential race