Cowen favourite to succeed Ahern

Voters opt for Cowen in opinion poll, writes Political Editor Harry McGee.

FINANCE MINISTER Brian Cowen has emerged as the clear favourite to succeed Bertie Ahern as Fianna Fáil leader among the electorate, according to the findings of the Irish Examiner/Lansdowne opinion poll.

Mr Cowen is the choice of 25% of all voters as their preference to succeed Bertie Ahern as leader of the party.