Connolly Becomes Ireland’s New President as Voters Decry Lack of Alternatives

Ireland has elected a new president, with left-wing independent candidate Catherine Connolly expected to defeat her rival, Heather Humphreys of the centrist Fine Gael party, in an election widely criticized for offering limited choices to voters.

The race drew backlash from conservatives who urged citizens to spoil their ballots over the absence of a right-wing contender.

The election saw controversy after a third candidate, Jim Gavin of the centrist Fianna Fáil party, dropped out following allegations of unpaid rent, though his name remained on the ballot due to his late withdrawal.

Several celebrities, including mixed martial arts star Conor McGregor, singer Bob Geldof, and dancer Michael Flatley, were reported to have considered running but ultimately declined.

Catherine Connolly, a 68-year-old barrister and member of parliament since 2016, gained significant momentum in recent weeks.

Her campaign went viral online after a video of her juggling a football circulated, helping her connect with younger voters. Backed by left-wing parties such as Sinn Féin, she advocates for social justice, military neutrality, and has been openly critical of both the United States and the European Union.

Her opponent, 62-year-old Heather Humphreys, a former cabinet minister and member of Ireland’s small Protestant minority, campaigned as a unifier.

However, widespread voter dissatisfaction persisted, as the election featured the fewest candidates since 1990 a factor expected to contribute to a low turnout.

Outgoing president Michael D. Higgins, who has held office since 2011, will be succeeded by Connolly once official results are announced. Polls opened at 7 a.m. and closed at 10 p.m., with final results expected late Saturday.