Strong reactions online to Taoiseach Simon Harris' new social media bio

Social media users have weighed in on their thoughts of new Taoiseach Simon Harris updating his X bio (formerly Twitter) to reflect his new leadership role.

X users have reacted to Mr Harris changing his profile to state his new role in government. He was formally elected in the Dáil and legally sworn in as Taoiseach by President Higgins this Tuesday afternoon. 

He wasted no time in updating his X bio, which now reads: "Taoiseach (Prime Minister of Ireland) Leader of Fine Gael and Wicklow TD".

He clearly says Taoiseach first and then in brackets, Prime Minister, in order to explain his job title to non-Irish. Crazy that people are taking offense over this pic.twitter.com/JYIkpqG7io

— Eoin Kelleher (@eoinyk) April 10, 2024

People have had mixed views of this change, with many criticising the translation of Taoiseach.

One person wrote: "He actually put Prime Minister on his profile.. Respect the real name. If they want to find out they can look it up."

Another social media user said: "And leaved TD untranslated. Neither term should be translated, but if you're going to do it, be consistent!" while another chimed in by saying, "No way. This is a joke, right?".

However, others flocked to the comments section to defend the 37-year-old tech-savvy Taoiseach's decision, with one X user saying: "What a ridiculous post. The term Prime Minster is used multiple times in the constitution. Leave the faux anger at the door."

Others were in agreement of this sentiment, saying: "He clearly says Taoiseach first and then in brackets, Prime Minister, in order to explain his job title to non-Irish. Crazy that people are taking offense over this", while someone else wrote, "Maybe it’s just to allow people outside Ireland to understand his position".

Simon Harris is the youngest ever Taoiseach in the history of the State. He succeeded Leo Varadkar, who announced his shock resignation on March 20 and formally resigned in the Dáil this Monday, April 8.