Overview
- Catherine Connolly secured just over 63% of first-preference votes and was elected on the first count, with Fine Gael’s Heather Humphreys on just over 29%, according to RTÉ.
- Connolly told RTÉ she will serve as “a symbol” for a new movement grounded in kindness, hope, climate action and a voice for peace.
- Her run was endorsed by a broad left alliance including Sinn Féin, Labour, the Social Democrats, the Greens and People Before Profit/Solidarity.
- The campaign leaned on grassroots organising and culturally attuned digital outreach, favouring podcasts, memes and influencer-led messaging over negative tactics.
- Analyses highlight the presidency’s moral pulpit and note Connolly’s focus on Irish neutrality and Palestinian solidarity, while she considers Council of State appointments and promises greater use of Irish at Áras an Uachtaráin.