Catherine Connolly, a veteran lawmaker and independent candidate, is poised to be elected president of Ireland in a significant victory over her competitors. As votes are tallied, early indications suggest that Connolly, 68, is on track to receive more than 60 percent of the total votes, far surpassing her nearest rival, Heather Humphreys of Fine Gael, who is expected to finish in the high 20s.
John Carroll, General Secretary of Fine Gael, confirmed the party’s anticipated defeat during an interview with national broadcaster RTE, stating, “It does appear likely that Catherine Connolly will be elected and we now move on to the job of working with her as a government.” This sentiment was echoed by Higher Education Minister James Lawless from the governing party Fianna Fail, who acknowledged the results as they began to emerge. A final declaration of the results is expected later today, March 16, 2024.
Connolly’s Political Journey and Views
Connolly, a prominent figure on the far-left of the Irish political landscape, has garnered support from a coalition of left-dominated opposition parties. Although she was not widely recognized at the beginning of the campaign, her criticisms of government policies, particularly regarding housing, resonated strongly with younger voters. Her emphasis on social issues and opposition to government actions has helped her build substantial momentum leading up to the election.
With a background as a clinical psychologist and barrister, Connolly previously served as the deputy speaker of Ireland’s lower house after being first elected in 2016. Notably, she has been an outspoken critic of the European Union’s military spending increases, positioning herself against the pro-EU sentiment that predominates in Ireland. Her views challenge the mainstream political discourse, especially her skepticism regarding the trustworthiness of the United States, Britain, and France concerning their policies related to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Challenges for the Governing Parties
The election has been marked by turmoil within the governing coalition, with both Fine Gael and Fianna Fail facing criticism and setbacks. Fine Gael’s initial candidate withdrew due to health reasons, leading to the last-minute selection of Humphreys. Meanwhile, Fianna Fail’s choice, former Gaelic football coach Jim Gavin, departed early from the race due to a financial scandal that raised concerns.
As Ireland prepares for a new political chapter under Connolly’s leadership, experts suggest that her presidency will primarily be a ceremonial role. The president’s duties include welcoming foreign heads of state and occasionally testing the constitutionality of legislation. Nevertheless, Connolly’s election represents a significant shift in the political landscape of Ireland, reflecting broader trends that may influence policy discussions in the future.
The election of Catherine Connolly marks a pivotal moment in Irish politics, highlighting the growing influence of left-wing ideologies in a traditionally moderate political environment. As she prepares to assume the presidency, the coming weeks will likely reveal how her administration navigates the challenges ahead.
