Connolly clinches landslide victory in Ireland’s presidential election Left-wing independent Catherine Connolly has been declared the winner of Ireland’s presidential election, securing a decisive victory over her centrist rival. Connolly, 68, a lawyer, lawmaker, and vocal critic of both the United States and the European Union, garnered more than 63 per cent of the votes, far ahead of Heather Humphreys, who trailed with 29.5 per cent. The election, however, was marred by a notable number of spoiled ballots, raising questions about voter dissatisfaction despite the wide margin of Connolly’s win.