"It has been a relatively dull campaign and there is quite a bit of frustration with the number of candidates, said Prof Kevin Rafter, a political scientist and the co-author of The Irish Presidency: Power, Ceremony and Politics. The campaign has been disappointing in the lack of intellectual oomph and ambition. It hasn't inspired voters. Neither candidate has really identified a particular theme."
"A roster of potential celebrity candidates including the musician Bob Geldof, the dancer Michael Flatley and the former mixed martial arts champion Conor McGregor had prompted curiosity, derision and dread but none received backing from four local councils, or 20 legislators, necessary for nomination. Maria Steen, a social conservative, and Gareth Sheridan, an entrepreneur, came closer to nomination but also fell short,"
Opinion polls give independent Catherine Connolly a wide lead over Fine Gael's Heather Humphreys, yet many voters feel unrepresented by either candidate. Almost half of voters report frustration and disillusionment, raising fears of low turnout and a high rate of spoilt ballots on 24 October. The campaign has been described as dull, lacking intellectual vigour and clear themes on major issues like housing, race, climate change and unification. Several high-profile hopefuls failed to secure the required nominations. Jim Gavin withdrew after gaffes and a financial scandal, leaving an unusually small two-candidate field.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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