The Athlone rep was hoping and expecting to be selected to run for the Seand.
A Westmeath councillor says he'll take time over the Christmas holidays to consider his political future - after seeing his Seanad bid come to an end.
The Athlone rep announced his intention to seek a seat in the Seanad earlier this week - and had already started canvassing in six counties.
However, the Irish Conference Of Professional and Services Associations selected only two Fianna Fáil candidates.
Current Senator, Robbie Gallagher and Fianna Fáil representative in Cork Margaret Murphy received the nominations.
Councillor O'Rourke says he had been quite confident of delivering a seat for the Midlands:
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