Irish Presidential Election 2025

Welcome to the official thread for discussing the 2025 Irish presidential election. Share news, insights, candidate profiles, and questions about the campaign as we head toward Election Day on 24 October 2025.

Key Election Information

Election Date: 24 October 2025
Position: President of Ireland (Uachtarán na hÉireann)

Incumbent: Michael D. Higgins (term ends 11 November 2025)

Voting System: Single transferable vote (instant-runoff)
Eligibility to Vote: All Irish citizens on the electoral register

 

Confirmed Candidates

 

Catherine Connolly (Independent) - Progressive, Left 

TD for Galway West, Leas-Cheann Comhairle, supported by Labour, Social Democrats, People Before Profit, several independents

 

Heather Humphreys (Fine Gael) - Centrist/Right leaning 

Former cabinet minister, TD for Cavan–Monaghan, officially ratified Fine Gael candida

 

Jim Gavin (Fianna Fail) 

Centrist/right leaning 

Former Dublin football manager 

 

 

 

Edited September 9, 2025Sep 9 by Blankspace2010

I'm scared about this election tbh 

the president is an entirely ceremonial position or am i wrong? it's been a while since i looked into irish politics 

13 minutes ago, holyground13 said:

I'm scared about this election tbh 

But the Irish presidency is mostly ceremonial isn't it?

51 minutes ago, Vermouth said:

But the Irish presidency is mostly ceremonial isn't it?

 

1 hour ago, gelato said:

the president is an entirely ceremonial position or am i wrong? it's been a while since i looked into irish politics 

No, the Irish presidency is much more than a ceremonial role. The President is an important figurehead and a voice for the people of Ireland. They are the official head of state, and many Irish people value that the office is independent of political parties. Historically, the presidency has been a progressive role, often reflecting and supporting social change.

 

The President signs bills into law, formalises key political appointments, and represents Ireland internationally. But beyond these formal powers, the President has a unique cultural and social influence. They are respected and influential figures in Ireland's political and popular life. They can shape discussions, set tones, and bring attention to issues that matter to the public. We cherish our President in Ireland for this ability to advocate for the people and, at times, put pressure on governments to act in the public interest.

 

It can be hard to explain, but their importance goes beyond formal powers. For example, in the next seven-year term, the President's role in advocating on issues such as Israel or developments toward a United Ireland could be significant. How the President chooses to use their voice can influence public debate, policy priorities, and even the direction of Ireland's political future.

 

Their influence on Irish culture, society, and politics makes the role far more impactful than it might seem at first glance

Edited September 2, 2025Sep 2 by Blankspace2010

President is also the commander in chief of Irish military and can refer bills to the Supreme Court ensure they align with our constitution. So can prevent or stop unconstitutional bills becoming law. 

Jim Gavin - Football manager wins Fianna Fails nomination

 

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c7018le62npo.amp

Mary Lou McDonald clarifies she won't run for Sinn Fein. 
 

Sinn Fein need to announce their plan in next 2 weeks. 
 

https://www.rte.ie/news/presidential-election/2025/0908/1532331-presidential-election/

On 9/2/2025 at 2:26 PM, Blankspace2010 said:

 

 

 

For example, in the next seven-year term, the President's role in advocating on issues such as Israel or developments toward a United Ireland could be significant.

 

 

Serious question. Why is Ireland so obsessed with Israel? 

2 hours ago, OreoCookie said:

Serious question. Why is Ireland so obsessed with Israel? 

Because people view it as similar to Northern Ireland. 

 

"Even though the land could not yet absorb sixteen million, nor even eight, enough could return... to prove that the enterprise was one that blessed him that gave as well as him that took by forming for England a little loyal Jewish Ulster in a sea of potentially hostile Arabism." 

Ronald Storrs, Military Governor of Jerusalem 1917-20, commenting in 1937 on the rationale of the 1917 Balfour Declaration.

4 hours ago, OreoCookie said:

Serious question. Why is Ireland so obsessed with Israel? 

Because we tend to not like evil, fascist, apartheid, genocide committing states. Usually provokes anybody with any kind of moral values. 

 

 

 

Ireland about to elect their most progressive president yet  

 

This coalition of leftist parties has shown how powerful they are when working together. This was some easy work. 
 

Mary Lou will be the next Taoiseach with Holly Cairns as Tainaiste! 

I mean, Jim Gavin was always a terrible pick, but them not doing the most basic vetting is baffling even for this government. 

Edited October 7, 2025Oct 7 by Jglj

5 hours ago, Jglj said:

I mean, Jim Gavin was always a terrible pick, but them not doing the most basic vetting is baffling even for this government. 

https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/fianna-fail-was-told-about-tenant-issue-before-jim-gavin-was-selected-to-become-candidate-for-aras/a1468214846.html
 

I stand corrected, they knew they just for some reason thought they could lie or that being a scum landlord during a housing crisis would not bother anyone.