Dublin, October 24, 2025 — Ireland appears set to elect Catherine Connolly, a left-wing independent candidate and vocal pro-Palestine advocate, as its next President, according to early polling data released hours before voting closed. The election has been marked by an unprecedented deepfake video scandal and a surge of youth support that has transformed the campaign landscape.
Polls closed at 10 p.m. local time (21:00 GMT), with final results expected Saturday evening. Connolly, 68, is projected to defeat Fine Gael’s Heather Humphreys, the centre-right establishment candidate, in an election that has reignited national debates about Irish neutrality, unity with Northern Ireland, and solidarity with Palestine.
Connolly’s Rise and a Campaign Rocked by a Deepfake Video
Connolly’s historic campaign — driven by a message of social justice, Irish unity, and opposition to European militarisation — faced turbulence earlier in the week when a fake AI-generated video circulated online. The deepfake depicted Connolly announcing her withdrawal from the race in what appeared to be an RTE News broadcast, triggering confusion among voters before being swiftly debunked.
Despite the smear attempt, Connolly’s popularity surged among younger voters, especially those disillusioned with traditional parties. Analysts credit her resilience and authenticity for turning the scandal into a rallying point for digital transparency and media accountability.
“This was an attack not just on me, but on truth and democracy,” Connolly said at a Galway rally on Thursday. “Ireland deserves leaders who will stand against manipulation and fight for integrity in public life.”
A Pro-Palestine and Pro-Unity Platform
Connolly’s campaign struck a chord with Ireland’s progressive electorate, combining calls for reunification with Northern Ireland and a strong stance in support of Palestinian rights amid Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza.
She described Irish reunification as a “foregone conclusion” and has sharply criticised the European Union’s growing militarisation, positioning herself as a defender of Irish neutrality and humanitarian diplomacy.
Her pro-Palestine platform resonates strongly in Ireland, a nation historically sympathetic to the Palestinian cause. Both Ireland and Spain have been among the European Union’s strongest voices calling for an end to Israel’s attacks in Gaza, in contrast to countries like Germany and Hungary, which have maintained staunch support for Israel.
Outgoing President Michael D. Higgins, known for expanding the moral scope of the presidency, previously stated that accusations of antisemitism against Israel’s critics amounted to “slander against Ireland,” a sentiment that echoes throughout Connolly’s campaign.
Cultural Resurgence and Youth Support
Connolly’s embrace of the Irish language and her participation in a broader cultural revival have made her a favorite among Ireland’s younger generation. She has drawn inspiration from Irish-language films like The Quiet Girl (An Cailín Ciúin) and music groups such as Kneecap, who have used their platforms to champion her candidacy.
Social media campaigns in Irish and English flooded X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok in recent weeks, urging young voters to “Vote Connolly” as a symbol of national pride and progressive reform.
Heather Humphreys: The Establishment Candidate
Connolly’s main rival, Heather Humphreys, 64, of the Fine Gael party, represents Ireland’s political establishment. Having served in multiple Cabinet roles — including Arts and Heritage, Business, and Rural Development — Humphreys has framed herself as a pro-EU, pro-business leader focused on stability and economic growth.
Raised as a Presbyterian in predominantly Catholic Ireland, Humphreys has highlighted her connections with Protestant communities in Northern Ireland, claiming that her presidency could “build bridges” and encourage peaceful dialogue across the border.
However, critics have dismissed her campaign as “more of the same,” arguing that her alignment with the ruling coalition reflects continuity rather than change. Connolly herself said Humphreys embodies “the political complacency Ireland can no longer afford.”
Limited Race and Voter Frustration
A third candidate, Jim Gavin of Fianna Fáil, remains on the ballot despite dropping out earlier in October amid a rental payment scandal. His withdrawal left voters with effectively a two-horse race, sparking criticism over limited political choice.
Still, voter turnout is expected to be among the highest in recent years, fueled by digital activism, the deepfake controversy, and the symbolic weight of Ireland potentially electing a pro-Palestine president.
A Presidency of Symbolism and Influence
Although the Irish presidency is largely ceremonial, it holds significant moral and diplomatic influence. Outgoing president Michael D. Higgins expanded the scope of the role through bold commentary on global justice, human rights, and culture — a precedent Connolly is expected to continue.
Political analysts believe a Connolly presidency could reshape Ireland’s global image as a moral leader in peace diplomacy and humanitarian advocacy, reinforcing its neutral yet principled stance in international affairs.
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