Independent left-wing politician Catherine Connolly has been elected Ireland’s 10th president in a stunning landslide victory, marking a significant blow to the country’s political establishment. Her win, secured with 64% of the vote, reflects a surge in support for anti-establishment sentiments and unity among opposition parties, energizing the left while underscoring voter dissatisfaction with traditional politics.
Catherine Connolly, a 68-year-old member of parliament from Galway, emerged victorious in Ireland’s presidential election after a campaign that captivated the nation. Initially an underdog, she announced her candidacy in July and quickly built momentum by positioning herself as a voice for change against the long-dominant Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil parties. Her composed debating style and focus on issues like social equality and Irish neutrality resonated widely, particularly among younger voters who turned out in significant numbers to support her.
The campaign saw Connolly secure backing from a broad coalition of left-wing parties, including Sinn Féin, the Social Democrats, and Labour, in a rare display of unity. She leveraged a slick social media strategy that included viral videos showcasing her athleticism, such as performing keepie-uppies with a football, which helped humanize her and attract widespread attention. In contrast, her main rival, Fine Gael’s Heather Humphreys, struggled to generate similar enthusiasm, while Fianna Fáil’s candidate, Jim Gavin, withdrew mid-campaign over a financial scandal but remained on the ballot.
Connolly’s political background as a former Labour councillor who broke away to serve as an independent TD since 2016 shaped her anti-establishment image. Throughout the race, she faced scrutiny over her foreign policy views, including her outspoken support for Palestine and criticism of NATO and Western militarism. She described Hamas as “part of the fabric” of Palestinian people and emphasized Ireland’s neutrality, positions that sparked debate but ultimately did not deter her landslide win.
The election results humbled Ireland’s traditional parties and highlighted voter frustration, though turnout was relatively low at around 46%, with many ballots intentionally spoiled. Analysts note that while Connolly’s victory energizes the left and could pave the way for a viable opposition alliance in future general elections, the presidency remains largely ceremonial. Her win does not signify a fundamental ideological shift in Irish politics, as executive power continues to rest with the center-right government coalition.
As president, Connolly has vowed to be an inclusive leader who listens and speaks out on key issues, including climate change, peace, and social justice. She plans to return a substantial portion of her €350,000 salary to community projects and has emphasized her commitment to upholding Ireland’s policy of neutrality. Her stance on a united Ireland, which she supports, is expected to be exercised through soft power, though it was not a central theme of her campaign.
Looking ahead, Connolly’s presidency is poised to bring a more activist tone to the role, building on the legacy of her predecessor, Michael D. Higgins. She has promised to reflect the voices of all Irish people and focus on building a “new Republic,” but her influence will be constrained by the constitution. The election outcome sets the stage for potential political realignments, though the left must navigate challenges such as low voter engagement and the need for broader appeal to sustain momentum.