Presidential Election Showdown: Divisive Campaigns, Controversial Comments and Voter Dilemmas

The fallout from Deputy Malcolm Byrne’s comments on Morning Mix yesterday continues to dominate the airwaves this morning. It comes as Deputy Byrne suggested that Fianna Fail voters unsure of how to vote in the upcoming presidential election should give Jim Gavin their no. 1 vote and Heather Humphreys their no. 2. This is despite Jim Gavins withdrawal from the race. Byrne’s suggestion that votes for Jim Gavin could eventually transfer to Heather Humphreys has sparked mixed reactions. Fianna Fail MEP Cynthia Ni Mhurchu addressed the controversy this morning with Alan Corcoran. Ni Mhurchu has defended Byrne’s intention. She believes its important to elect a centrist, pro-European president and she confirmed that she would be giving her first preference to Heather Humphreys. She doesn't believe Malcolm Byrne should withdraw his comments and has defended Michéal Martin as the best person to lead the party However she has acknowledged peoples frustration with the entire presidential campaign and the lack of choice of a candidate Meanwhile, former MEP Mick Wallace was equally as vocal believing Fianna Fail have sunk to a new low. He believes that Catherine Connolly is resonating with the public and gaining momentum despite being initially considered an outsider. Wallace dismissed claims that her campaign is tied to controversial figures like him and Claire Daly. Wallace emphasised that people are increasingly rejecting the mainstream parties and their policies, particularly on issues like housing and militarisation The race has been marked by heated debates over the candidates' histories and their stances on major issues. Heather Humphreys has been criticised for her past associations and her role in government, particularly regarding housing and social welfare. On the other hand, Connolly's legal work including her representation of banks involved in evictions has come under scrutiny. As the election nears its conclusion, the final TV debate tonight will be a crucial moment. With undecided voters still in play, both candidates will be aiming to sway the audience. For many, the decision may come down to personal preferences as the presidential role is largely symbolic, with little direct influence on issues like housing or the cost of living. While both candidates have faced controversies, our political correspondent Sean Defoe believes that Connolly’s campaign has the upper hand due to her clear focus on the future and her growing support base. He predicts a win for Connolly, but warns that anything can happen in the final days of the campaign.