Oprah Winfrey has been the stand out speaker so far at the Democratic Convention, Leo Varadkar has said. 

The former Taoiseach was invited to the event in Chicago by former US Speaker Nancy Pelosi. 

As a “political buff”, Mr Varadkar said he had watched US political conventions since he was a teenager but had never previously attended one in person. 

“I have to admit Oprah yesterday was great,” he told The Hard Shoulder. 

“She was an extraordinary speaker; I’m not somebody who watches the show or follows her closely but would obviously be aware that she’s a brilliant actor. 

“But her speech was very good and appealed to the independent voter. 

“She’s a registered independent herself and was encouraging independent voters to come out.” 

Oprah on @KamalaHarris, our next President of the United States! pic.twitter.com/qLfzarL5dh

— The Democrats (@TheDemocrats) August 22, 2024

Mr Varadkar also praised Vice President nominee Governor Tim Waltz’s speech as “very good” as well. 

“Also, Wes Moore - he’s the Governor of Maryland and is tipped as rising star in the party,” he said. 

“His speech got a great reception.” 

Mr Varadkar said outgoing President Joe Biden was someone who he “deeply respects and will always be grateful for” but said his decision not to run had clearly changed the election to the Democrats’ advantage. 

“The enthusiasm is greater for this new ticket and I don’t think there’s any doubt about that from the feeling on the ground,” he said. 

Life after the Dáil

As for his own future, Mr Varadkar said he will remain a TD until the election but was “exploring lots of different options” for after the election. 

“I don’t intend to run for election again but I expect I’ll still be engaged and involved in politics in some way,” he said. 

“I still care a lot about the future of the country and what goes on in the world. 

“I imagine I’ll be involved in some way or another - just not with my name on a ballot paper.” 

The next election must be held this year or in early 2025.

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Main image: Leo Varadkar and Nancy Pelosi. Image: Supplied.