Catherine Connolly has made history by being elected as the President of Ireland following a significant landslide victory. She secured 914,143 first preference votes, marking the largest vote count in the nation’s presidential election history.
Connolly, an independent politician who has served as a TD (Member of Parliament) since 2016, received the backing of the leading left-wing parties. In her acceptance speech, delivered first in Irish and then in English, she promised to be “an inclusive president for all.” She stated her intention to be a voice for peace, uphold Ireland’s policy of neutrality, address the threat of climate change, and champion the work being done across the country.
The 68-year-old from Galway will succeed Michael D Higgins, who has completed his two constitutional terms. The election saw a notable 213,738 spoiled votes and a turnout of 46%. Heather Humphreys, the government’s candidate, secured 29% of the first preference votes, while Jim Gavin, who had withdrawn from the race but remained on the ballot, received 7%. Humphreys conceded the race, acknowledging Connolly as the president for all.
Irish leaders, including Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris, congratulated Connolly on her victory, emphasizing the strength of Ireland’s democracy. Sinn Féin’s president, Mary Lou McDonald, hailed the result as a “stunning victory” and a win for the opposition parties.
Connolly has expressed her support for a united Ireland and aims to advocate for a border poll during her presidency. Northern Ireland’s First Minister Michelle O’Neill viewed the election outcome as a sign of an “era of hope” and a testament to collaboration for progress.
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