Chappell Roan lyrics making an appearance in the Irish legislature? Sure, why not.
The out-of-the-box reference comes courtesy of independent Irish politician Paul Gogarty, who was elected to the Dáil Éireann (the lower house of the Irish legislature) in 2024. On Thursday, he gave a speech in the Dáil opposing the nomination for the new Taoiseach, or prime minister, of Ireland.
Sounds like typical political goings-on, but Gogarty spiced the moment up with a reference that caught both the Dáil and the internet off-guard. Referencing his discontent with the incoming administration, Gogarty said, “What does come to mind is Chappell Roan, painting a picture of what it’s like in five years’ time.”
That’s when he launched into his quote: “And when you think about me all those years ago, you’re standing face to face with I told you so. You know I hate to say it, but I told you so.”
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Yes, he delivered a good chunk of the bridge to Roan’s hit song “Good Luck, Babe!” through a complete deadpan. (Are any other former theater kids out there reminded of awkwardly turning a song’s lyrics into a monologue to practice acting? Just me? Okay.)
Gogarty went on, saying, “It doesn’t have to turn out that way, though. And if we work constructively we might have better options.” With that, he identified his own priorities for government, including addressing Ireland’s homelessness and healthcare issues. Gogarty posted the full speech to his TikTok.
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When Gogarty’s speech hit the internet, Irish citizens and Chappell Roan fans alike were confused and amused by his choice in equal measure. “He’s your favourite politician’s favourite politician,” one user quipped.
As one user pointed out, Gogarty is a “fellow singer-songwriter,” having released music under the stage name His Sweet Surprise more than a decade ago. Could he be angling for a collab with Roan in the future?
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