Though his rapid rise through the ranks of Fine Gael betrays undeniable political talent, Harris lacks a discernible vision for the future of the state, writes Law and Politics Editor Michael Keating Dake.
After Leo Varadkar’s surprise resignation last month, long-time party colleague Simon Harris succeeded him as Taoiseach and leader of Fine Gael. Harris, having served as a Government minister in various portfolios since 2016, had long been touted as a likely successor to Varadkar. Harris was best known for his role as Minister for Health, and for his conspicuous online presence. Harris has also usurped Varadkar as record holder of the title of youngest-ever Irish premier, an impressive accomplishment. Yet for all of his diplomatic skill and social media “savvy,” the 37-year old’s glaring paucity of political imagination betrays a fundamental lack of substance at the heart of the Fine Gael machine.
For all of his diplomatic skill and social media “savvy,” the 37-year old’s glaring paucity of political imagination betrays a fundamental lack of substance at the heart of the Fine Gael machine.
In his speech at the Fine Gael ard fheis, he pledged to fix housing “once and for all,” a bold assertion that, for many, fell short of any commitment to tangible improvements, nor indeed a ban on vulture funds. His support for tax credit increases for renters and modest increases in social housing supply seem to follow in the footsteps of his predecessor’s strategy and represent a more dovish approach to the Fine Gael tradition of kowtowing to the landlord class.
In his speech at the Fine Gael ardfheis, he pledged to fix housing “once and for all,” a bold assertion that fell short of any commitment to tangible improvements, nor indeed a ban on vulture funds.
For some, especially younger audiences, Harris represents the political inertia and insularity that pervades the Blueshirt establishment. While his frequent appearances on TikTok may render him visible in the public eye, his disinterest in critical policy issues (i.e., housing) shows that he is woefully out of touch with that same public he is so eager to ensnare online. Una Mullally recently wrote for the Irish Times that Harris’ “vacuous” online persona left her feeling “cold,” arguing that Fine Gael had made a fundamental mistake in allowing their party leader’s personal ambition and vanity to take precedence over national strategy. On the subject of Harris’ public rhetoric, Mullally astutely argued: “People want housing and health policy that delivers, not infantilising ChatGPT-like content.”
Harris represents the political inertia and insularity that pervades the Blueshirt establishment. While his frequent appearances on TikTok may render him visible in the public eye, his evident disinterest in critical policy issues (i.e., housing) shows that he is woefully out of touch with that same public he is so eager to ensnare online.
Consider, for example, Harris’ speech at the ard fheis, during which he voiced strong criticisms of Israel. Harris stated: “Prime minister Netanyahu, the Irish people could not be clearer. We are repulsed by your actions. Ceasefire now and let the aid flow safely.” For all this strong rhetoric, Harris has yet to deliver equally strong foreign policy measures to support the civilian population in Gaza or promote peace in the region. With the world in a state of crisis and volatility, small democratic nations like Ireland will have an important role to play promoting respect for fundamental principles such as democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. But given the apparent lack of leadership on this issue, one wonders if Ireland’s voice will even be audible over the din of violence and conflict taking place across the world.
Harris may present an official stance on issues like housing and Gaza, but until this strong rhetoric is matched by equally strong policies, young voters may feel alienated by his party. While it remains early days for his administration, Harris faces a looming general election and an increasingly agitated cohort of students impacted by the housing crisis, and indeed horrified by the ongoing violence in Gaza, Ukraine, not to mention an unfolding climate crisis. As our republic turns 75 years old, the need for steady, focused, and intelligent leadership is more urgent than ever before.