Irish presidential candidates Connolly and Humphreys debated, with Connolly defending past remarks on Germany and Humphreys addressing her record on Irish language and austerity.

Catherine Connolly and Heather Humphreys, the final two candidates in Ireland’s 2025 presidential race, debated on RTÉ Radio 1, with Connolly defending her past remarks linking Germany’s military buildup to Nazi history, calling accusations of insulting allies “scurrilous.” Humphreys, a former cabinet minister, acknowledged challenges in her record, including unfulfilled Irish language goals due to Brexit and the pandemic. Both addressed their political pasts, with Connolly explaining her role as a barrister representing banks during the recession, and Humphreys reflecting on austerity measures. On Northern Ireland, Humphreys highlighted her Protestant background, while Connolly expressed personal support for a united Ireland but deferred the decision to political leaders. They agreed on strengthening the Defence Forces, though their views on foreign policy diverged, with Humphreys criticizing Connolly’s stance as akin to appeasement.