Irish News - Irish Leaders Condemn Conor McGregor’s White House Visit

Irish political leaders have strongly criticized Conor McGregor’s appearance in the Oval Office on St. Patrick’s Day, where he met with US President Donald Trump.

Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe said his "heart fell" upon seeing the former MMA fighter in the White House, stating that McGregor "does not represent Ireland."

"He doesn’t represent the men of this country. He doesn’t represent the values of diversity and respect that Ireland stands for."

Widespread Backlash from Irish Officials

Tánaiste Simon Harris echoed Donohoe’s sentiments, saying he understood the “real sense of disgust” in Ireland over McGregor’s high-profile visit.

"He represents the very worst of toxic masculinity. While Trump can invite whoever he wants, McGregor was not speaking for Ireland in any way."

People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy also criticized Taoiseach Micheál Martin’s diplomatic approach with Trump, calling it “cowardly” for not challenging Trump’s public praise of McGregor.

"It was really scandalous that Conor McGregor was set up to represent the Irish people on St. Patrick’s Day in the White House."

Murphy also dismissed speculation that McGregor may run for president, saying:

"His ambitions might get attention on Elon Musk’s social media, but he has no real public support in Ireland."

Conor McGregor Meets with Trump at White House, Criticizes Irish Government

UFC star Conor McGregor made a high-profile visit to the White House on St. Patrick’s Day, where he met with President Donald Trump to discuss "the issues the people of Ireland face."

During a brief appearance alongside White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, McGregor blasted the Irish government, accusing it of "zero accountability" and failing its citizens.

"I'm here to raise the issues the people of Ireland face. Never on the main stage have these issues been spoken about. Our government has abandoned the voices of the Irish people, and it's high time America is made aware of what’s going on in Ireland."

McGregor’s Political Ambitions and Criticism of Irish Leadership

McGregor’s White House visit follows months of speculation about his potential entry into Irish politics. In September, he teased a presidential run, calling himself:

"The only logical choice."

The 36-year-old fighter previously declared that, as President of Ireland, he would:

Summon and dissolve the Dáil (Irish Parliament) to demand answers from politicians.
Stand against "thieves of the working man", "disruptors of the family unit", and "destructors of small businesses."