This week Sean catches up with Fianna Fáil Presidential candidate Jim Gavin after he secured the nomination ahead of MEP Billy Kelleher
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191. What will Jim Gavin be like as a politician?
As Jim Gavin enters the race for the Presidency Off The Ball's GAA Correspondent Tommy Rooney joins Sean Defoe to discuss what Gavin might be like as a politician. What can we learn from his time as Dublin boss about how he would approach the Áras?
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190. The Biggest Controversies in Presidential Election History
In this episode of Let Me Explain, Sean Defoe takes a fascinating trip down memory lane to explore the controversies that have shaped Irish presidential elections. From high-profile scandals to sharp political clashes, Sean covers how some candidates faced firestorms—sometimes of their own making.
Join Sean as he revisits notable moments from past elections, including the turbulent 1990 race featuring Brian Lenihan and Mary Robinson, and the dramatic fallout from Sean Gallagher's campaign in 2011. He examines how these incidents, whether damaging or surprising, have affected candidates and their chances at the presidency.
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189. What is the President not allowed to say?
In this episode of Let Me Explain, Sean Defoe dives into the intriguing world of presidential powers and constraints in Ireland. What can the President actually say, and what rules govern their speech?
Joining Sean is Dr. Jennifer Kavanagh, the "constitutional whisperer," who unpacks the legal intricacies surrounding the office of the president. With insights into the constitutional backing and historical context, they discuss how Michael D. Higgins has navigated these limitations while still voicing opinions on critical issues like housing.
As the presidential race heats up, the conversation shifts to how potential candidates might approach this delicate balance of opinion and formality in their campaigns.
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188: BONUS: Mairead McGuinness pulls out of the race for the Presidency
Mairead McGuinness has pulled out of the Presidential race.In a shock statement this afternoon the former EU Commissioner said she was doing so on medical advice after spending time in hospital last week.She said she doesn't believe she has the strength to give the campaign her all. McGuinness had been the favourite to win the election and replace Michael D Higgins.
If you don't have the time to keep up with every twist and turn of the news agenda then sit back and Let Me Explain.
Each week host Seán Defoe goes behind the scenes on one of the biggest stories dominating the airwaves.
Why is it a big deal? Who's trying to spin you a line? And, most importantly, why should you give a damn?
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