In recent times, Harris has enthusiastically embraced the social media platform TikTok, amassing a following of nearly 100,000. According to Jennifer Bray, Political Correspondent for the Irish Times, this strategic move could gain more significance as an election approaches, with hopes of appealing to a younger electorate that feels increasingly disconnected from traditional politics.
Harris's rapid rise to prominence occurred when he became the health minister in 2016, solidifying his position as one of Fine Gael's emerging leaders. Despite being seen as a potential leadership contender in 2017 when then-premier Enda Kenny stepped down, the then-30-year-old Harris declined, citing his lack of experience.
During his tenure as health minister, Harris played a pivotal role in Ireland's decision to legalize abortion, describing it as "a vote to end lonely journeys, end the stigma, and support women's choices in our own country." He also led Ireland's initial response to the pandemic before being reassigned in mid-2020, avoiding the complexities of managing the country's emergence from the Covid crisis.
However, Harris's time as health minister was not without controversy. In 2018, a scandal erupted when the Irish health service provided incorrect smear tests for cervical cancer to over 200 women. Harris admitted personal mistakes in handling the scandal, acknowledging that there were lessons to be learned and that no one could escape responsibility.
Harris continued as minister for further and higher education, research, innovation, and science until his appointment as party leader, marking a swift rise through Ireland's political ranks.
Reflecting on his career, Harris told Hot Press in 2022, "I know, in many ways, my career has been a bit odd. Life came at me a lot faster than I expected it to."
Despite his rapid rise, Harris faces significant challenges in his new role. The shine of the previous government has faded, and Harris inherits a governing coalition facing a tough battle to retain power.
Ireland is grappling with a housing crisis, particularly affecting younger voters whom Harris seeks to attract. Coupled with a cost of living crisis and immigration concerns, public support for the traditional parties has waned, leading to a surge in support for Sinn Fein, a left-wing Irish nationalist party.
Once considered the political wing of the IRA, Sinn Fein has rebranded itself as a grassroots left-wing party focused on social issues. Its rise has sparked discussions about a potential reunification of Ireland through a border poll, although this remains a distant prospect.
Harris, while acknowledging reunification as a legitimate aspiration, emphasized that his focus and priority lie elsewhere. He told Sky News after his election as Fine Gael leader that reunification is not his current priority.