Politics

Fine Gael TDs back Simon Harris to replace Varadkar as McEntee rules out bid

The higher education minister is expected to announce his bid later today

Leo Varadkar with party colleagues as he announces his resignation as both taoiseach and party leader of Fine Gael in the courtyard at Government Buildings. Picture: Fergal Phillips

Simon Harris, the higher education minister, has emerged as the favourite to replace Leo Varadkar as Fine Gael party leader and taoiseach.

Neale Richmond, the junior minister, became the first TD to formally back Harris as a candidate early this morning. This was followed by a further 23 parliamentary party members backing Harris.

TDs Alan Farrell, Frank Feighan, Peter Burke, Brendan Griffin, Emer Higgins, Colm Brophy, and ten senators including Regina Doherty and Barry Ward ...