Independent Candidate Makes History with Record Vote Share
Catherine Connolly has been elected as Ireland's 10th president in a stunning landslide victory that saw her secure a record-breaking 63% of first preference votes. The 68-year-old independent candidate from Galway defeated her main rival, Fine Gael's Heather Humphreys, who received just 29% of the vote before conceding defeat on election day.
'I want to be an inclusive president for everyone who listens, thinks and speaks when necessary,' Connolly declared in her victory speech, which she delivered first in Irish and then in English, emphasizing her commitment to representing all Irish citizens.
Historic Victory with Cross-Party Support
Connolly's victory represents a remarkable achievement for an independent candidate who managed to secure support across the political spectrum. She was backed by major left-wing parties including Sinn Féin, the Social Democrats, Labour Party, People Before Profit, and the Green Party, along with several independent members of the Oireachtas.
The election results, announced on October 25, 2025, show Connolly received 914,143 first preference votes - the highest number in Irish presidential election history. 'This wasn't just a campaign, it was a movement,' Connolly told supporters during her victory celebration.
Transition from Michael D. Higgins
Connolly will succeed Michael D. Higgins, who has served as president since 2011 and completed the maximum two terms allowed under the Irish constitution. Higgins, now 84, was a popular figure during his tenure and helped raise the profile of the largely ceremonial office.
The presidency of Ireland is primarily a symbolic role, with the president serving as head of state and supreme commander of the Irish Defence Forces. According to constitutional provisions, the president represents Ireland internationally, receives visiting heads of state, and appoints the Taoiseach (prime minister) nominated by the Dáil, but has no power to make laws or policy.
Connolly's Political Background
Before her presidential victory, Connolly served as a Teachta Dála (TD) for the Galway West constituency since 2016. She made history in 2020 when she became Ireland's first female Leas-Cheann Comhairle (Deputy Speaker), serving in the role until November 2024.
Her political journey began with the Labour Party, where she was elected to Galway City Council in 1999 and served as Mayor of Galway from 2004 to 2005. She left the party in 2006 over candidate selection disputes and successfully ran as an independent in subsequent elections.
Policy Positions and International Views
Connolly describes herself as a socialist and pacifist, with foreign policy views that have been characterized as critical of Western institutions. She is a staunch supporter of Irish neutrality and has been vocal in her criticism of what she describes as European "militarization."
She has condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine but also criticized NATO's approach to Russia as "warmongering." Connolly is also an outspoken supporter of Palestine and has been highly critical of Israel, which she has described as a "genocidal state."
Domestically, Connolly supported the legalization of same-sex marriage and abortion in Ireland. She is also an advocate for Irish reunification and has worked as both a clinical psychologist and barrister before entering politics full-time.
Inauguration and Seven-Year Term
Connolly is scheduled to be inaugurated on November 11, 2025, and will serve a seven-year term as Ireland's head of state. Her victory marks only the third time a woman has held the presidency, following Mary Robinson (1990-1997) and Mary McAleese (1997-2011).
The election outcome signals a significant shift in Irish politics, with voters opting for an independent candidate over established party figures. 'The people have spoken clearly for change and for a president who will represent all voices,' Connolly stated, promising to bring her unique perspective to the Áras an Uachtaráin.