Catherine Connolly Wins Irish Presidency with Record 63% Vote Amid 13% Spoiled Ballots

Catherine Connolly has been elected as the 10th President of the Republic of Ireland with a record 63% of first preference votes, surpassing her closest rival, Fine Gael's Heather Humphreys. The election saw an unprecedented number of spoiled votes, around 13%, signaling voter dissatisfaction with the limited candidate choice, prompting calls from politicians for government reflection on future elections. Connolly received widespread congratulations from Irish President Michael D Higgins, who pledged the support of his office, as well as from international leaders including UAE officials and Venezuela's Foreign Minister, who praised her stance on peace and social justice. Connolly, a seasoned politician from Galway and a lawyer, promised to be an inclusive president focused on peace, climate change, and representing all citizens, continuing the progressive legacy of her predecessor. Her election will lead to a by-election in her Galway West constituency, and she will be inaugurated on November 11. Various Irish political parties and religious leaders also extended their congratulations, highlighting her long-standing commitment to public service and leadership.