The exit poll results show Sinn Féin slightly ahead with 21.1% of the vote, followed closely by Fine Gael at 21% and Fianna Fáil at 19.5%. This suggests a potential shift in the political landscape, as the left-wing nationalist party Sinn Féin, led by Mary Lou McDonald, aims to challenge the long-standing dominance of the two centre-right parties.

Key Issues and Campaign Dynamics

The election campaign was marked by intense debates over housing, the cost of living, public spending, and immigration. Housing remains a critical issue, with many voters frustrated by the lack of affordable homes and rising rents. Sinn Féin has promised to build 100,000 public homes over the next five years, a pledge that has resonated with younger voters and those struggling to get on the property ladder.

The cost of living crisis has also been a significant concern, with inflation driving up prices for everyday goods and services. Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil have both emphasised their economic credentials, arguing that their policies will stabilise the economy and protect jobs. However, Sinn Féin has criticised their handling of the economy, pointing to growing inequality and the need for more robust social safety nets.

Public spending and healthcare have been other major topics of debate. Fine Gael has promised to increase funding for healthcare and reduce waiting times, while Fianna Fáil has focused on improving mental health services. Sinn Féin has proposed a wealth tax to fund public services, a policy that has sparked both support and controversy.

Immigration has also been a contentious issue, with differing views on how to manage Ireland’s growing population and integrate new arrivals. Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil have advocated for a balanced approach, while Sinn Féin has called for more support for immigrants and refugees.

Prime Minister Simon Harris of Fine Gael, who called for a snap election three weeks ago, faced criticism after a viral video showed him being dismissive to a care worker. Despite this, Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil emphasised their pro-business and pro-EU stances, arguing that their leadership would ensure stability amid global economic uncertainties.

Vote Counting Process

Ireland’s proportional representation system, which involves multiple rounds of counting and redistribution of votes, means that the final results may not be clear for several days. The initial tallying of votes began at 9:00 GMT, with partial results expected throughout the day. The complexity of the system requires votes to be counted multiple times, making the process lengthy.

RTÉ has been providing extensive coverage of the election, with live updates from all 32 count centres across the country. Their coverage includes real-time constituency blogs, interactive maps, and continuous reporting on RTÉ One, RTÉ Radio 1, and online platforms. This comprehensive approach ensures that the public stays informed about every significant development as it happens.

Potential Outcomes and Coalition Talks

If the exit poll predictions hold, Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil may need to form a coalition with smaller parties to secure a majority in the Dáil, Ireland’s parliament. This could lead to protracted negotiations as parties jockey for position and influence. The Green Party, which was part of the outgoing coalition, may also play a crucial role in the formation of the new government.

The Social Democrats and Labour Party could also be potential coalition partners, each bringing their own priorities to the table. The Social Democrats have focused on social justice and environmental issues, while Labour has emphasised workers’ rights and public sector investment. These smaller parties could hold the balance of power, making their support crucial for any coalition government.

Challenges for Incumbents

Unofficial tallies suggest that some prominent figures may face challenges in retaining their seats. Health Minister Stephen Donnelly of Fianna Fáil is reportedly in a tough battle in Wicklow, while Green Party leader Roderic O’Gorman is also at risk. The election has highlighted the volatility and shifting allegiances within the Irish electorate.

In Dublin West, Roderic O’Gorman’s struggle reflects broader challenges for the Green Party, which has faced criticism over its role in the outgoing government. Meanwhile, in Wicklow, Simon Harris’s re-election battle is being closely watched, given his high-profile role as Prime Minister. These individual contests are indicative of the broader uncertainties and potential upsets in this election.

The 2024 US Presidential Election has been one of the most contentious and closely watched in recent history. Early polls indicated a tight race between former President Donald Trump and incumbent Vice President Kamala Harris. A notable poll from Iowa showed Harris overcoming Trump, highlighting the unpredictable nature of this election.

Donald Trump, born June 14, 1946, in New York, has carved out a uniquely controversial path in American politics. Bursting onto the political scene with his 2016 presidential campaign, Trump secured the White House by winning the Electoral College, even as he lost the popular vote to Hillary Clinton. His presidency was defined by sweeping policy changes, two historic impeachments, and a deeply polarizing leadership style.

Despite his 2020 election defeat to Joe Biden, Trump remained a dominant force within the Republican Party, ultimately launching his 2024 presidential bid. His campaign centers on key issues like immigration, economic reform, and national security.

The 2024 campaign saw several high-stakes interactions between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, as both candidates fiercely competed in crucial battleground states. Trump energized his base with rallies in North Carolina and Pennsylvania, while Harris focused her efforts on Michigan and Pennsylvania. The race was filled with intense and heated exchanges, with Trump frequently attacking Harris’s policies and leadership, adding to the electrified atmosphere of the campaign.

As Election Day unfolded, voters across the nation turned out in record numbers. Polling stations began to open at 13:00 GMT, with the first polls closing at 01:00 GMT on Wednesday morning. Early results showed a neck-and-neck race, with both candidates claiming victories in various battleground states. The first exit polls released indicated that key issues for voters included the economy, healthcare, and the state of democracy.

In a surprising move, Donald Trump declared victory before the final votes were counted. Addressing his supporters in Florida, Trump stated, “This is a magnificent victory for the American people,” and claimed to have won the popular vote. His declaration came amid ongoing vote counts in several key states, adding to the election’s tension.

As the vote count continued, both campaigns prepared for potential legal battles. The focus remained on seven crucial swing states: Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and North Carolina. These states were expected to determine the final outcome of the election, with both candidates making their final pushes in these regions.

Key Dates and Events

• November 5, 2024: Election Day, with polling stations opening at 13:00 GMT and the first polls closing at 01:00 GMT on November 6.
• November 6, 2024: Ongoing vote count and early results continue to come in, with both campaigns closely monitoring the situation.
• Mid-December 2024: The Electoral College is expected to meet to formally cast their votes for the President and Vice President.
• January 6, 2025: Congress will convene to count the Electoral College votes and officially declare the winner of the election.
• January 20, 2025: Inauguration Day, where the newly elected President and Vice President will be sworn into office.

The DUP also lost seats in Lagan Valley and South Antrim. In Lagan Valley, the Alliance Party made history by winning the seat, previously a stronghold of the DUP. The Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) also gained ground, with Robin Swann winning South Antrim from the DUP.

Sinn Féin emerged as the largest party in Northern Ireland, retaining all seven of its seats and increasing its vote share compared to the last general election in 2019. This victory solidifies Sinn Féin’s position as the dominant party at Westminster, Stormont, and local government levels. However, due to its policy of abstentionism, Sinn Féin will not take its seats in the House of Commons.

The Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) maintained its two seats in Foyle and Belfast South and Mid Down. The party’s leader, Claire Hanna, retained her seat in Belfast South, continuing to be a significant voice for the party.

Nationally, the Labour Party achieved a landslide victory, with Sir Keir Starmer set to become the new Prime Minister. This result has been welcomed by many in Dublin, with Tánaiste Micheál Martin expressing hope for a reset in British-Irish relations after a tense period during the Brexit negotiations.

The election results have highlighted the changing political landscape in Northern Ireland. The DUP’s losses reflect a shift in voter sentiment, with many turning to other unionist parties like the TUV and UUP, as well as the cross-community Alliance Party. The success of Sinn Féin and the Alliance Party indicates a growing support for parties that advocate for a united Ireland and progressive policies.

The election night was dramatic, with counting taking place at three main centers: the Titanic Exhibition Centre in Belfast, the Meadowbank Sports Arena in Magherafelt, and the South Lake Leisure Centre in Craigavon. The first results began to come through early in the morning, with final results confirming the significant changes in Northern Ireland’s political representation.