Independent candidate secures near 70% in early tallies while protest votes reach unprecedented levels
Independent candidate Catherine Connolly is on course for a comprehensive victory in Ireland’s presidential election, with early tallies showing her claiming close to 70% of votes in multiple constituencies, while a coordinated campaign has driven spoiled ballots to historic highs.
Speaking at her Galway West count center, a delighted Connolly told reporters: “We came together on behalf of a new vision for the country, and we should be proud to represent the public on this, when it comes to housing and peace.”
She pledged to “put hope into people again,” emphasizing that “the office is for you. I am only a symbol of the new movement.” Connolly thanked all voters, including those who didn’t support her, promising to “do my utmost to represent everyone.”
As of 9:45am, tallies from Cork North and South Central showed Connolly commanding nearly 70% support, with Fine Gael’s Heather Humphreys taking approximately 24% and withdrawn candidate Jim Gavin receiving around 6%.
However, the election has been marked by an extraordinary surge in spoiled ballots, many containing anti-government messages. In some areas, including Dublin city center, spoiled ballots outnumbered votes for Humphreys. Offaly reported spoiled ballots exceeding 20% in early tallies—a dramatic increase from 1-1.2% in the 2011 and 2018 elections.
The “spoil the vote” campaign, promoted by figures including businessman Declan Ganley, gained significant traction. Pre-election polls predicted 6% would spoil their votes, but early tallies suggest the actual figure is considerably higher.