Conor McGregor launches petition in attempt to get on ballot to run for President of Ireland

Conor McGregor really wants to become the President of Ireland.

On Monday, the former two-division UFC champion launched an online petition in hopes of gaining enough attention that he could potentially change procedures so he could get on the ballot for the general election. Under the current rules, potential candidates have to get nominated and meet certain criteria before ended up on the ballot for the election.

McGregor, whose bid to become president has been met with a lot of skepticism by local media and politicians, is seeking to change those rules so he can let the public decide whether or not he gets elected.

“I, Conor McGregor hereby declare my intention to seek the esteemed office of President of Ireland,” McGregor wrote for his Change.org campaign. “The current constitutional framework however presents a significant barrier to democratic participation. The existing regulations mandate that a candidate must secure nominations from either twenty members of the Oireachtas or four county councils to be eligible for the ballot. This system, while intended to ensure a degree of political influence among candidates, inadvertently restricts the direct voice of the Irish electorate.

“In light of this, 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. 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.”

McGregor has been teasing his move into politics for several months, especially after he went to the White House to meet with President Donald Trump during a St. Patrick’s Day celebration in March.

Generally speaking, the presidency in Ireland is much different than say the United States.

The President of Ireland is considered the head of state and the supreme commander of the Irish Defense Forces but the role is largely seen as a ceremonial institution without significant political power.

Still, McGregor wants his voice to be heard so he’s trying to run for the role and hoping this latest campaign could potentially get Ireland to change its rules to allow him on the ballot.

The latest move from McGregor comes just days after a court in Ireland shot down his appeal after he was found liable for sexual assault for an incident that allegedly took place back in 2018. McGregor also recently announced plans to restart his UFC career after re-entering the promotion’s anti-doping program with hopes that he could compete at the planned card at the White House in 2026.

McGregor hasn’t fought since 2021 when he suffered a gruesome broken leg during his trilogy with Dustin Poirier.