In a decisive turn for Ireland’s political landscape, Catherine Connolly, a 68-year-old left-wing independent, has clinched the presidency with an overwhelming 63% of first-preference votes, according to official results reported by multiple outlets including France 24 and Haaretz. The landslide victory, announced on October 26, 2025, saw Connolly comfortably outpace her center-right rival, former Cabinet minister Heather Humphreys, who garnered just 29% of the vote. The election, held on Saturday, October 25, was marked not only by Connolly’s commanding lead but also by a palpable sense of shifting political tides across the country.
Connolly’s win was powered by the unified backing of Ireland’s left-leaning opposition parties, notably Sinn Féin, the Labour Party, and the Social Democrats. This coalition support, as detailed by the Associated Press, proved pivotal in consolidating the left’s influence and signaling a marked appetite for change among voters. “We have seen a real appetite for the change that Catherine represents,” said Labour Party leader Ivana Bacik. “We believe this really does mean a new sort of politics is possible, that we can now realize the ambition that I talked about a year ago: The real prospect of a center-left-led government after the next general election.”
Though the Irish presidency is largely ceremonial, without executive powers to shape laws or policies, the president serves as a vital representative of Ireland on the international stage and as a unifying voice at home. Connolly’s predecessor, Michael D. Higgins, who held the office for two seven-year terms since 2011, was known for his outspoken views on issues such as the war in Gaza and NATO spending. Connolly, who will become Ireland’s 10th president and only the third woman to hold the post, is expected to continue this tradition of vocal advocacy.
In her victory speech at Dublin Castle, Connolly struck an inclusive and conciliatory tone. “I would be an inclusive president for all of you, and I regard it as an absolute honor,” she declared. She further pledged to “champion diversity and be a voice for peace and one that builds on our policy of neutrality.” Her words resonated with supporters who have come to view her as an anti-establishment figure unafraid to challenge the status quo. According to Haaretz, Connolly has been particularly outspoken on the conflict in Gaza, criticizing Israel’s actions and calling for peace. She has also warned against what she sees as the European Union’s increasing “militarization” following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Connolly’s stance on neutrality is rooted in Ireland’s longstanding tradition of military non-alignment. However, her critics argue that her outspoken positions risk alienating Ireland’s allies at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions. As France 24 noted, while Connolly’s supporters praise her courage and principles, detractors worry about potential diplomatic fallout. Despite these concerns, Connolly’s message of inclusion and peace struck a chord with the electorate, as evidenced by her resounding victory.
Heather Humphreys, the defeated center-right candidate from Fine Gael, conceded graciously before the final count was complete. “Catherine will be a president for all of us and she will be my president, and I really would like to wish her all the very, very best,” Humphreys told reporters, as cited by AP. Her concession underscored the broad acceptance of Connolly’s mandate, even among political opponents.
The election itself was notable for several reasons beyond the headline result. Jim Gavin, the candidate from Prime Minister Micheál Martin’s Fianna Fáil party, withdrew from the race three weeks prior over a long-standing financial dispute. However, his name remained on the ballot due to the timing of his withdrawal, a quirk that did little to affect the outcome but did raise questions about the nomination process.
The electoral commission reported a “significantly higher than normal” number of spoiled ballots, prompting officials to reflect on growing voter dissatisfaction and consider possible changes to nomination thresholds in future elections. Deputy Premier Simon Harris commented on the situation, noting that the spoiled ballots “showed the number of people in Ireland now who are clearly feeling disaffected or disconnected with politics.” The commission’s statement suggested that a broader conversation about political engagement and representation may be on the horizon.
Despite the largely symbolic nature of the presidency, Connolly’s victory is being hailed by left-wing parties as a harbinger of deeper political change. Sinn Féin and its allies see the result as evidence of a groundswell for progressive policies and a possible prelude to a center-left government after the next general election. The enthusiasm among these parties was palpable in the aftermath, as supporters celebrated what they view as a mandate for a more inclusive and socially conscious Ireland.
Prime Minister Micheál Martin, who had backed Gavin as his party’s candidate, congratulated Connolly on her “very comprehensive election victory.” He expressed optimism about working with the new president as Ireland prepares to host the EU presidency in the latter half of 2026. “Ireland continues to play a significant role on the global stage,” Martin said, emphasizing the importance of unity and forward-looking leadership.
Connolly’s personal journey to the presidency is itself remarkable. A former barrister, she has served as a lawmaker since 2016 and built a reputation for principled independence and advocacy on issues ranging from social justice to international affairs. Her election also marks a continuation of Ireland’s recent trend toward greater gender representation in high office, as she becomes only the third woman to serve as president.
The race also attracted attention from public figures outside traditional politics. Notable personalities like musician Bob Geldof and former mixed martial arts champion Conor McGregor expressed interest in running but failed to secure enough nominations to appear on the ballot. Their inability to enter the race, despite their fame, highlighted the unique challenges and requirements of Ireland’s presidential nomination process.
As Connolly prepares to assume office, she faces the delicate task of balancing her outspoken views with the unifying role expected of the presidency. Her victory is a testament to the evolving political landscape in Ireland and the enduring appeal of candidates who promise to give voice to those who feel left behind or unheard. Whether her tenure will lead to lasting policy change or remain largely symbolic, as dictated by the constitutional limits of her office, remains to be seen. But for now, Connolly’s triumph is a clear signal that Irish voters are embracing a new chapter—one that promises inclusion, peace, and perhaps a touch more boldness on the world stage.