McCarthy, who has described his politics as being "neither left nor right",[3] was first elected to Cork City Council in June 2009, representing the south-east ward.[1][4]
On 23 June 2023, McCarthy was elected Lord Mayor of Cork, a role he held until 21 June 2024.[5][4] At the start of his tenure, he stated that his priorities included reducing homelessness, advancing social and affordable housing projects, and issues such as climate change.[5] In a statement published at the time of his election, he advocated for sustainable mobility, enhanced city amenities, and the integration of sustainable development goals into urban planning.[6]
On 6 September 2025, McCarthy announced that he intended to seek nominations from several city and county councils to run in the 2025 Irish presidential election.[7] McCarthy stated he was seeking to become president because he believes the role holds "untapped potential" that was not fully explored by past candidates. He said his aims were to promote cultural heritage, strengthen links with Ireland's diaspora and "[link] in local authorities".[3] While he secured the backing of one council, Waterford City and County Council,[8] he did not receive the four council nominations necessary to make it onto the ballot.[9] He "bowed out" of the nomination process on 22 September.[9]
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