Gay Senator David Norris edges closer to Irish presidency
Gay Irish senator David Norris has moved closer to becoming a candidate in the 2012 Irish presidential election.
The independent politician, who recently re-entered the race, needs the backing of one more council to become an official candidate.
This morning, he gained his third nomination when Waterford City Council backed a motion supporting him.
Candidates must gain the support of 20 Oireachtas members or four county councils to contest the election. The deadline is midday tomorrow.
Mr Norris’ independent rival, Dana Rosemary Scallon, also has three nominations.
At the time of writing, seven councils are yet to announce who they will back.
Mr Norris, 67, pulled out of the race in August over controversy surrounding a letter of support he had written for a former partner who was convicted of raping a 15-year-old boy.
But earlier this month, he announced he would stand after receiving a “consistent outpouring of public support”.
If elected, he will become the world’s first openly gay head of state.
