By Dayo Ade Olusola | November 2, 2025 | M10News
A new public poll has found that more than half of respondents believe Micheál Martin should resign as leader of Fianna Fáil, while a majority say Jim O’Callaghan would be the preferred choice to take over.
The findings, published by the Irish Independent, reveal a clear shift in public opinion amid ongoing debate about the future direction of Fianna Fáil.
Poll Findings
According to the Independent/Ireland Thinks survey, over 50 percent of those polled said Micheál Martin should step aside as party leader.
Among potential successors, Jim O’Callaghan, the Dublin Bay South TD, emerged as the public’s top preference to replace him.
Read More: Pressure Mounts on Micheál Martin as Fianna Fáil TDs Call for Leadership Discussion
The results come at a time when Fianna Fáil is under increasing pressure to improve its electoral performance ahead of next year’s local and European elections.
Context and Reaction
Martin, who has led Fianna Fáil since 2011 and previously served as Taoiseach from 2020 to 2022, has not commented publicly on the latest poll results.
Party figures have also not issued any formal statement regarding the findings.
The poll follows a period of political turbulence and renewed discussion about leadership renewal within the party. While Micheál Martin remains one of Fianna Fáil’s longest-serving leaders, recent polling data suggests public appetite for change.
O’Callaghan Seen as Leading Contender
Jim O’Callaghan, a senior legal figure and long-time TD, has been consistently viewed as a potential successor within party ranks.
Although he has not announced any leadership ambitions, his name frequently appears in public polling as a preferred alternative.
O’Callaghan previously served as Fianna Fáil’s spokesperson on justice and is regarded as one of the party’s most recognisable figures in Dublin.
Next Steps for Fianna Fáil
The latest poll adds to growing scrutiny of Fianna Fáil’s strategy ahead of the next general election.
Political analysts suggest the findings may prompt internal discussions about leadership, campaign messaging, and voter engagement.
However, there is no indication of an immediate leadership challenge, and Micheál Martin continues to lead the party in government as Minister for Foreign Affairs.
Background
Under Martin’s leadership, Fianna Fáil returned to power in 2020 after forming a coalition government with Fine Gael and the Green Party.
Since then, the party has faced fluctuating support, balancing its role in government with efforts to rebuild its traditional voter base.
As Fianna Fáil approaches a critical electoral year, the new poll underscores public demand for renewal and raises questions about how the party will respond.
