Stoker was raised a Protestant in the
Church of Ireland. He was a strong supporter of the
Liberal Party and took a keen interest in Irish affairs. As a "philosophical home ruler", he supported
Home Rule for Ireland brought about by peaceful means. He remained an ardent monarchist who believed that Ireland should remain within the British Empire. He was an admirer of Prime Minister
William Ewart Gladstone, whom he knew personally, and supported his plans for Ireland.