Presidential Candidates Radiate Optimism on Final Day of Campaign Trail

In the lead-up to the presidential elections in Ireland, candidates Catherine Connolly and Heather Humphreys have concluded their campaigns with optimism. Polls suggest that Connolly, an independent candidate, is ahead of Humphreys from the Fine Gael party.

Election Day Approaches

The elections will be held on Friday, marking the selection of Ireland’s 10th president. According to the Irish Independent/Ireland Thinks poll, Connolly boasts a support rate of 40%, while Humphreys trails with 25%.

Campaign Highlights

• Catherine Connolly wrapped up her campaign in Co. Roscommon and Galway.
• Heather Humphreys focused on Sligo and Donegal.

Connolly’s final campaign rally in Galway drew hundreds of supporters. She emphasized the importance of the upcoming election, stating it offered a “stark choice” for voters: continuity or change. “I have never used a bad word against the other candidate,” she noted, aspiring to represent a movement for a new Republic.

Political leaders, including Sinn Féin’s Mary Lou McDonald and Labour’s Ivana Bacik, rallied behind Connolly. McDonald specifically warned supporters not to fall into complacency, stressing that every vote counts.

Community Engagement

In her campaign, Connolly visited a primary school in Castlerea, where students showcased Irish dancing and performed the national anthem. Her visit to a local grocery store culminated in a conversation with shopkeeper Tom Flynn, who expressed confidence in Connolly’s chances.

Humphreys’ Strategy

On the other hand, Heather Humphreys enlisted her party leader, Simon Harris, to reach out to potential voters. Humphreys acknowledged the challenges reflected in the polls but encouraged her supporters to stay optimistic, recalling past election successes against the odds.

Humphreys declared, “Tomorrow, we’re going to defy all the sceptics and we’re going to elect Heather Humphreys the 10th president of Ireland—but only with your help.”

Poll Insights and Voter Sentiment

Despite being withdrawn from the electoral race, Fianna Fáil candidate Jim Gavin remains on the ballot, currently receiving 7% support. Polls indicate 28% of voters are either undecided, plan to abstain, or may spoil their ballots. If these undecided votes are excluded, Connolly’s support rises to 55% compared to Humphreys’ 35%.

The election employs a transferable vote system, meaning that if Connolly maintains her lead, the winner could be known after the initial counting phase.