Presidential election

An early start and ‘humanising’ keepie-uppies: how Catherine Connolly thrived on social media

Going viral can help a candidate reach the masses but deepfake videos are ‘a threat to democracy’, says expert

Catherine Connolly tries a chair exercise class while visiting the McAuley Place centre in Naas during her presidential campaign, which excelled on social media thanks to her relatability. Photograph: Bryan O’Brien
Catherine Connolly tries a chair exercise class while visiting the McAuley Place centre in Naas during her presidential campaign, which excelled on social media thanks to her relatability. Photograph: Bryan O’Brien
Órla Ryan's picture
Órla Ryan
Sat Oct 25 2025 - 18:22
Presidential electionCatherine ConnollyHeather HumphreysSocial MediaJim GavinTikTokFacebookInstagramMetaSinn FéinFine GaelFianna Fáil