2025 Irish Presidential Election
A Visual Guide to the Nominees
Candidates at a Glance: Policy Leanings
This chart provides a high-level comparison of the candidates based on the political alignment of their publicly stated stances and initiatives. It offers a snapshot of each candidate’s legislative and policy focus across the political spectrum.
Heather Humphreys
Fine Gael (Centre-Right)
With an extensive career in national politics, Heather Humphreys has held several key ministerial roles. Her policy record reflects a focus on business support, rural development, and social protection, aligning with her party’s centre-right, pro-enterprise ideology.
Key Stances & Initiatives
💰
Pro-Business Economy
Consistently backed measures to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and attract foreign investment.
🌳
Rural Development
Championed the “Our Rural Future” policy to revitalize rural Ireland through infrastructure and remote working hubs.
🍽️
Social Programmes
Implemented the Hot School Meals Programme and a scheme for free primary school books.
Initiative Breakdown
Initiative Breakdown
Jim Gavin
Fianna Fáil (Centrist)
A prominent figure from the world of sport, Jim Gavin enters politics as a newcomer. Running with the traditionally centrist Fianna Fáil, his emerging platform emphasizes national unity, community inclusion, and a pragmatic approach to foreign policy.
Key Stances & Initiatives
🛡️
Defence & Neutrality
Supports abolishing the “Triple Lock” on deploying troops, signaling a potential shift in Ireland’s traditional neutrality.
🤝
Community & Inclusion
Has pledged to create a forum dedicated to improving inclusion for people with disabilities.
🇮🇪
National Unity
Frequently speaks on the importance of bringing people together and fostering a shared sense of national identity.
Catherine Connolly
Independent (Left-Wing)
A seasoned independent TD with roots in the Labour Party, Catherine Connolly is a staunch advocate for social justice and human rights. Her platform is defined by strong left-wing principles, focusing on housing, wealth redistribution, and upholding Irish neutrality.
Key Stances & Initiatives
🏠
Right to Housing
A vocal critic of government housing policy and a prominent advocate for treating housing as a fundamental right.
💶
Progressive Taxation
Supports increasing taxes on high earners and wealth to better fund public services for all citizens.
🕊️
Irish Neutrality
A strong proponent of neutrality and critical of any moves that would align Ireland with military alliances.