Catherine Connolly is leading the Irish presidential election despite a damaging deepfake video. This election matters as it reflects the political landscape and youth engagement in Ireland.

The Irish presidential election is underway, with independent candidate Catherine Connolly emerging as a frontrunner against Heather Humphreys of the Fine Gael party. Connolly's campaign has resonated with younger voters, particularly due to her stances on social justice and reunification with Northern Ireland. However, her campaign faced a significant challenge from a deepfake video that falsely portrayed her withdrawing from the race. Despite this setback, Connolly maintains a lead, reflecting a shift in voter priorities. Humphreys, with extensive government experience, positions herself as a pro-business candidate, but critics argue she represents continuity rather than change. The election underscores the impact of technology on political discourse and the evolving dynamics of voter engagement in Ireland.