Kate O'Connell

2024 - 10 - 13

From Fine Gael to Independent: Kate O'Connell's Twisty Political Journey!

Dublin Bay South - Emma Blain - Fine Gael - Independent candidate - Irish politics - James Geoghegan - Kate O'Connell

Discover the surprising turn of events as former TD Kate O'Connell transitions from Fine Gael to running as an Independent! Who will conquer Dublin Bay South?

In a surprising turn of events, former Fine Gael TD Kate O'Connell has announced her decision to run as an Independent candidate for the upcoming general election in Dublin Bay South. This decision comes hot on the heels of Fine Gael’s latest move to bolster its electoral prospects by nominating Cllr Emma Blain to the party ticket at a recent meeting of the executive council. O'Connell’s departure marks a dramatic shift in her political trajectory, especially since she had previously celebrated the ascension of Simon Harris to the position of Taoiseach as a moment of revival for Fine Gael.

With Blain now heading into the election alongside Dublin's Lord Mayor, James Geoghegan, the stakes are higher than ever. The new dynamics within Fine Gael could potentially reshape Dublin's political landscape, throwing O'Connell into fierce competition against her former allies. It’s a classic case of once friends now foes, as she aims to rally support from disgruntled Fine Gael voters who may feel overlooked in this ticket shake-up.

As excitement builds for the electoral race, both O'Connell and Blain have their work cut out for them. O'Connell's strong connection with the local electorate and her knowledge of the issues facing Dublin could give her an edge as she embarks on this independent campaign. Meanwhile, Blain and Geoghegan need to prove they can energize the Fine Gael base and attract new supporters in the increasingly competitive Dublin Bay South constituency.

Political analysts are keenly observing these developments, as they may signal a larger shift within Irish politics. Can Kate O'Connell succeed in carving out a niche as an Independent, or will Fine Gael’s new duo sweep the floor in this electoral showdown? Only time will tell how this political popcorn drama unfolds!

Did you know that Dublin Bay South is not only known for its vibrant political scene but is also a beautiful coastal area boasting stunning views of the Irish Sea? It's a hotspot for local festivals and a gathering place for the community, making it an ideal battleground for these candidates. Also, Simon Harris’s rise to Taoiseach is considered a significant leadership shift, said to bring fresh energy to Fine Gael. With so much at stake, the upcoming election promises to be one of the most intriguing yet!

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Image courtesy of "The Irish Times"

Kate O'Connell turned down for place on Fine Gael ticket in Dublin ... (The Irish Times)

In response to questions from The Irish Times, the party said: “Yesterday the Fine Gael executive council approved the addition of Cllr Emma Blain to run with ...

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Image courtesy of "thejournal.ie"

Former Fine Gael TD Kate O'Connell to stand as Independent after ... (thejournal.ie)

Emma Blain was added to the Dublin Bay South ticket alongside Lord Mayor of Dublin James Geoghegan following a meeting of Fine Gael's Executive Council ...

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Image courtesy of "Independent.ie"

Emma Blain to contest election for Fine Gael in Dublin Bay South as ... (Independent.ie)

Fine Gael councillor Emma Blain will stand for general election in Dublin Bay South alongside running mate James Geoghegan and against former party TD Kate ...

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Image courtesy of "msnNOW"

Former Fine Gael TD Kate O'Connell to stand as Independent in ... (msnNOW)

It's a big turnaround from April when she greeted Simon Harris becoming Taoiseach as a 'rebirth' for Fine Gael.

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Image courtesy of "Irish Examiner"

Fine Gael denies offering former TD Kate O'Connell place on ... (Irish Examiner)

A party spokesperson said that while Ms O'Connell had been considered as an addition to the ticket, she was informed last week that she would not be the ...

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Image courtesy of "Independent.ie"

Emma Blain to contest election for Fine Gael in Dublin Bay South as ... (Independent.ie)

Fine Gael councillor Emma Blain will stand for general election in Dublin Bay South alongside running mate James Geoghegan and against former party TD Kate ...

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