Catherine Connolly, a 68-year-old independent left-wing politician, has made history as Ireland’s new president — winning a record 63% of first-preference votes and becoming the third woman to hold the office after Mary Robinson and Mary McAleese. Her election signals a generational and ideological shift in Irish politics, where independence, social justice and neutrality resonated more than party loyalty.
The Big Picture
Connolly’s presidency represents Ireland’s growing appetite for independent, values-based leadership. Though the Irish presidency is largely ceremonial, the office carries moral weight, often serving as the conscience of the nation. Connolly’s outspoken record ensures she will use that influence to speak on social justice, neutrality and peace — much like her predecessor Michael D. Higgins, but with sharper political edges.
Her Political Journey
Connolly’s career began in Galway, where she served as a councillor before being elected as an independent TD (member of parliament) for Galway West. Originally aligned with Labour, she broke away over what she saw as the party’s drift from social-democratic ideals. She has since carved a niche as a principled voice against establishment consensus — challenging government policies on housing, health, and foreign affairs.Her grassroots reputation rests on accessibility and independence: she funds her own campaigns, avoids corporate donations and is known for her plain-spoken, uncompromising style.
Views on Social and Domestic Issues
Left-wing independent presidential candidate Catherine Connolly arrives at Dublin Castle for the count in Ireland’s presidential election to replace Michael D. Higgins, who has served the maximum two seven-year terms, on Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025. (Niall Carson/PA via AP)
Connolly’s domestic focus has always been rooted in equity. She has been an advocate for affordable housing, tenant rights, disability inclusion, and workers’ welfare. She is also a strong supporter of preserving and promoting the Irish language, arguing that national identity should be inclusive rather than nostalgic.Her presidential campaign framed her as “a president who listens, reflects and speaks when necessary,” promising to elevate the voices of those often unheard — youth, renters, minorities, and people with disabilities.
On Ireland’s Neutrality and Foreign Policy
Connolly has long been an advocate for Ireland’s neutrality. She views the country’s non-aligned status as both moral and strategic — a foundation for peace diplomacy rather than military alliance. She has criticised what she describes as the “militarisation” of the European Union and has warned against Ireland drifting toward NATO-style cooperation.She also sees the presidency as a platform for global peace advocacy — using the moral authority of the office to speak against war, arms proliferation and international injustice.
The Gaza Question
Connolly’s most controversial views relate to Israel and Palestine. She has been an outspoken critic of Israel’s military actions in Gaza, describing them as violations of international law and calling for sanctions. She has referred to Israel as a “terrorist state” and urged Ireland to recognise Palestine as a sovereign nation immediately.Her rhetoric has drawn sharp reactions — applause from pro-Palestine and anti-war groups, and criticism from conservative commentators and Jewish organisations who see her tone as inflammatory. Yet, for her supporters, this outspokenness is precisely what sets her apart from cautious career politicians.
European Union and Reunification
Connolly’s relationship with the European Union is pragmatic but sceptical. While not anti-EU, she has frequently warned that the bloc’s growing defence ambitions risk undermining Ireland’s neutrality and democratic accountability.On Irish reunification, she has said it is “a foregone conclusion,” arguing that social and cultural integration between North and South is already advancing faster than politicians acknowledge. Her position combines nationalist sentiment with a progressive emphasis on equality and inclusion.
The Symbolism of Her Presidency
Connolly’s victory represents more than a personal milestone. It symbolises a public mood that values authenticity over affiliation — a politics of conviction rather than convenience. Her presidency is expected to mirror the moral activism of Mary Robinson, the intellectual independence of Michael D. Higgins, and a sharper, more outspoken critique of global injustices.Her challenge will be to balance moral leadership with diplomatic restraint — maintaining Ireland’s global reputation for peace and neutrality while holding firm to her convictions.Bottom line: Catherine Connolly embodies a distinctly Irish brand of progressivism — rooted in compassion, independence, and cultural pride. Her presidency will test how far moral authority can go in shaping the conscience of a small nation with an outsized voice on the global stage.
