Sinn Fein's Strategic Move: A Game Changer for the Party and the Presidential Election?

Catherine Connolly's presidential campaign received a significant boost when Sinn Fein threw its weight behind her on September 20, marking a strategic move for the party. The support added considerable momentum to her campaign, and Sinn Fein's own popularity has risen by five percentage points to 27% according to the Irish Times/Ipsos B&A poll. The left-wing parties have seen varying results, with Labour gaining 2% and the Social Democrats dropping one point, while the Green Party and People Before Profit remained static. This unprecedented collaboration between Sinn Fein and the left-wing parties has sparked interest in their potential future alliances, especially in the context of a general election.

Key Takeaways:

  • Sinn Fein's endorsement of Catherine Connolly's presidential campaign has been a game changer, providing significant momentum to her campaign.
  • The party's popularity has risen by 5 percentage points to 27% according to the Irish Times/Ipsos B&A poll.
  • The left-wing parties have seen varied results, with Labour gaining 2% and the Social Democrats dropping one point.
  • Sinn Fein's involvement has shown a level of coherence to voters, people seeing the opposition working together to challenge the government.
  • However, a senior Sinn Fein person believes that this cooperation might not go much further than the presidential campaign, citing potential challenges in future alliances.
  • The partnership has changed the left-wing landscape, and it will be interesting to watch how they proceed with future discussions and potential alliances.

Statistics:

  • Sinn Fein's popularity has risen by 5 percentage points to 27% according to the Irish Times/Ipsos B&A poll.
  • Labour gained 2% in the same poll.
  • The Social Democrats dropped one point.
  • The Green Party and People Before Profit remained static in the poll.
  • Sinn Fein endorsed Catherine Connolly's presidential campaign on September 20.

Sources:

  • Irish Times/Ipsos B&A poll
  • "Sinn Fein gives backing to Catherine Connolly's presidential campaign" by The Irish Times
  • "The left wing landscape is changing - but it's not all about snuggling up" by The Irish Times
  • "Catherine Connolly says she will make decisions based on her own views, not on party influence" by The Irish Times