Catherine Connolly, an independent lawmaker from the left of Ireland’s political spectrum, was elected president on Saturday in a decisive victory that signalled public dissatisfaction with the recently re-elected centre-right coalition government.
Connolly, 68, a veteran parliamentarian and frequent critic of the European Union, secured 63.4% of the vote against 29.5% for her only rival, former cabinet minister Heather Humphreys. Despite limited initial recognition, Connolly’s campaign gained traction among younger voters and those seeking a more independent presidency.
In her victory speech at Dublin Castle, Connolly pledged to be “a president who listens, who reflects, and who speaks when necessary,” emphasising unity and inclusivity.
Although the Irish presidency is largely ceremonial, the officeholder can influence public debate and occasionally refer legislation to the Supreme Court. Connolly’s positions—opposing increased EU defense spending and expressing skepticism toward U.S., British, and French policies on the conflict in Gaza—place her further left than many of her supporters and her predecessor, President Michael D. Higgins.
A former clinical psychologist and barrister, Connolly is known as one of the most prominent pro-Palestinian voices in parliament, a stance broadly aligned with Irish public opinion. Her victory continues the trend of electing independent-minded presidents valued for personal integrity and principles.
Analysts suggest that weak campaigns from the governing Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil parties also aided Connolly’s success. Humphreys was not her party’s first choice, and Fianna Fáil’s intended candidate, former football coach Jim Gavin, withdrew after a financial controversy.
The result has energised Ireland’s fragmented left-wing opposition, including Sinn Féin, which hopes to challenge the long dominance of centre-right parties. However, experts note that maintaining unity may prove difficult in upcoming parliamentary elections.
A record 13% of ballots were spoiled, partly in protest over the exclusion of a conservative candidate, prompting government consideration of nomination reforms.
