🗳️ A Resounding Mandate
Independent TD Catherine Connolly has been officially declared the 10th President of Ireland, following a sweeping victory in the 2025 presidential election. Connolly secured over 63% of the national vote, defeating Fine Gael’s Heather Humphreys and surpassing the first-preference vote record previously held by President Michael D. Higgins Meath Chronicle TheJournal.ie.
The announcement was made at Dublin Castle on October 25, 2025, after Connolly won in 42 of 43 constituencies, with only Cavan–Monaghan—Humphreys’ home base—breaking the national trend TheJournal.ie.
👤 About the President-Elect
Connolly, 68, is a former barrister and clinical psychologist from Galway, and has served as an Independent TD for Galway West since 2016. She previously held roles as Mayor of Galway and Deputy Chair of the Dáil. Known for her progressive stances and advocacy for social justice, she ran a grassroots campaign emphasizing neutrality, civic equality, and constitutional integrity Limerick Leader RTÉ Ireland.
🗯️ A Polarizing Campaign
While Connolly’s campaign energized younger voters and progressive blocs, it also drew criticism for its anti-NATO rhetoric, support for Palestinian causes, and calls for EU military spending reform. The election saw a record number of spoiled ballots—over 200,000, or 13% of total votes—reflecting public discontent with the political establishment and the limited candidate field TheLiberal.ie.
👑 Historical Significance
Connolly becomes:
- The third woman to serve as President of Ireland, following Mary Robinson and Mary McAleese
- The first Independent woman elected to the office
- The successor to Michael D. Higgins, whose second term concludes in November 2025
She will be inaugurated at Áras an Uachtaráin next month, where she is expected to focus on constitutional guardianship, human rights, and inclusive civic discourse.
Sources:
Meath Chronicle: Meath Chronicle – Connolly Declared 10th President
TheLiberal.ie: The Liberal – Connolly’s Presidency Begins Amid Spoiled Votes
Limerick Leader: Limerick Leader – Who Is Catherine Connolly?
RTÉ Ireland: RTÉ – Connolly’s Political Journey
TheJournal.ie: TheJournal.ie – Connolly Wins with Record Vote
Catherine Connolly Picture from Houses of the Oireachtas
