Both declared their interest on Tuesday, with each needing support from 20 members of the parliamentary party, 25 councilors, and five members of the party’s executive to advance.
By late afternoon, Heather had secured at least 29 TDs and senators, with expectations her tally would surpass 30.
Among those pledging support were ministers Peter Burke and Patrick O’Donovan, junior ministers Neale Richmond, Hildegarde Naughton, Colm Brophy and Emer Higgins, and a large number of TDs and senators across the country.
Seán, meanwhile, had the declared backing of just six parliamentary party members by the same point, including Clare TD Joe Cooney, who described himself as a proud Munster and GAA man. Cork East TD Noel McCarthy and Senators Michael Kennelly and Garrett Ahearn also came out for him, praising his work as an MEP and his grassroots connection.
MEP Seán Kelly.
Announcing her run on Northern Sound radio, Heather said she had been "genuinely humbled" by the support she received. She admitted her decision marked a change of heart, as she had previously ruled herself out.
"But as we know, everything has changed with Mairead’s news last week, and I would just like to wish her well in her recovery," she said, referring to Mairead McGuinness stepping aside from contention.
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Heather reflected on her earlier decision to leave politics, saying she had been ‘a bit burned out’ after a decade in Cabinet.
"I’ve said to myself more than once: 'you could do a bit more Heather'. Really, I’ve had a good rest, the tank is full again. And you know timing is a funny thing because I have never felt as good about taking on the challenge."
At present, she appears to hold a decisive advantage, though Seán has vowed to remain in the race - we will just have to wait and see!
* This article was originally published on Evoke.ie.
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