A Movement of Hope: Reflections on Catherine Connolly’s Campaign and Presidency

When I first met Catherine Connolly, she said it would be a miracle if she won. At the time, it felt like an honest assessment of the challenge ahead but what followed proved just how powerful genuine conviction and hard work can be.

As the convenor of the County Wicklow campaign, I saw first-hand how support for Catherine grew over the weeks and months. What started small quickly became something much bigger. People were drawn to her straightforward approach and her willingness to speak up for those who often feel ignored. It stopped feeling like just another campaign and started to feel like a movement.

Staying True to Her Values

Throughout the campaign, Catherine stuck to her values. She refused to be dragged into negativity, even when others tried to discredit her through smears and misinformation. She kept things positive, respectful, and focused on the issues that matter most, fairness, accountability, and community.

That approach earned real respect. People responded to her honesty. You could feel it in conversations on doorsteps and at meetings.  There was a sense that she meant what she said, and that she understood the realities people face.

A Grassroots Effort

In Wicklow and across the country, the campaign relied on ordinary people who believed in her message, some never having any interest in politics before. Volunteers gave their time, energy, and creativity to help spread the word. It was genuine, local, and people-driven.  That’s what made it powerful and I really hope we can keep this momentum going and continue to work together as a credible left alliance.