Fine Gael most popular party in the country - poll

Fine Gael has emerged as the most popular political party in Ireland according to the latest Sunday Independent/Ireland Thinks opinion poll, released on Saturday, 4 July 2026. The survey indicates that Fine Gael holds a narrow lead over Sinn Féin, which trails by one percentage point, and Fianna Fáil, which lags behind by three points. This result highlights the close competition among the main political parties in the country, suggesting that the political landscape remains highly fluid and unpredictable. The poll, conducted on 3 July, surveyed 1,279 individuals and carries a margin of error of +/-2.8%. According to the findings, Fine Gael has gained one percentage point compared to its position in the previous poll, bringing its total support to 20%. Sinn Féin, however, saw a slight decline, dropping to 19%, while Fianna Fáil recorded a modest increase, reaching 17%. Other smaller parties showed mixed results, with the Social Democrats maintaining their 12% share, Independent Ireland falling to 7%, and Aontú remaining steady at 6%. Labour and the Green Party both stayed at 3%, while People Before Profit-Solidarity held at 2%. Support for independent candidates rose slightly to 11%. In addition to party support, the poll examined the popularity of individual leaders. Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns continues to hold the top spot, though her approval rating dipped one percentage point to 40%. Fine Gael leader Simon Harris and Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin both maintained their respective ratings of 33% and 35%. Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald saw a drop of one percentage point to 30%, while Labour leader Ivana Bacik lost two percentage points, settling at 28%. The poll also explored leadership preferences within Fianna Fáil. Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan was identified as the preferred successor to Micheál Martin, receiving 52% of the votes. He significantly outpaced his rivals, including Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary, who received 17%, and Fianna Fáil's deputy leader and Minister for Public Expenditure Jack Chambers, who garnered 16%. The survey included questions on policy issues, such as drug decriminalisation. When asked whether drugs for personal use should be decriminalised, as recommended by a recent Oireachtas committee, 57% of respondents opposed the idea, while 34% supported it. Nine percent indicated they did not know their stance on the issue. The results of the poll underscore the dynamic nature of Irish politics, where even small shifts in public opinion can influence the trajectory of political parties and leaders. With the upcoming elections looming, these figures will likely play a crucial role in shaping campaign strategies and voter engagement efforts across the political spectrum.