Current Affairs - International - Discussion

Catherine Connolly, an independent left-wing politician from Galway, was elected as Ireland’s 10th President with around 63% of the first-preference votes, defeating her main rival Heather Humphreys. Her victory marks a significant moment in Irish politics, being both a rebuke to the centre-right establishment and a sign of public support for progressive and inclusive values. Connolly, who has served as a Teachta Dála since 2016 and was Deputy Speaker of Parliament, campaigned on themes of social justice, neutrality in foreign policy, and equality, promising to be “a president for all” Irish citizens.