Overview
- Official results show Connolly taking about 63–65% of valid first‑preference votes to Heather Humphreys’ roughly 28–29%, with withdrawn Fianna Fáil nominee Jim Gavin around 7%.
- Authorities reported 213,738 invalid ballots and turnout near 46%, prompting calls from officials for reflection on voter dissatisfaction and nomination rules.
- Backed by Sinn Féin, Labour and the Social Democrats, the independent left‑wing lawmaker becomes Ireland’s 10th president and the country’s third woman to hold the office.
- Connolly pledged to be an inclusive president and a voice for peace and neutrality, while critics note her outspoken positions on Gaza and EU militarization could create tensions with the government.
- The presidency is largely ceremonial with limited constitutional powers such as referring bills to the Supreme Court, and Connolly’s inauguration is scheduled for November 11.