Almost half of those who spoiled their vote in last year’s presidential election did so because they did not like any of the candidates, according to research carried out for An Coimisiún Toghcháin, the Electoral Commission. More than 12 per cent of the total ballot was deemed invalid, compared with just 1.2 per cent in the 2018 presidential election. The finding is contained in the Presidential Election 2025 National Election and Democracy Study (Neds). Only three candidates secured a place on the ballot paper to contest last October’s election. Not enough choice was a reason for 17 per cent, and 14 per cent said their spoiled ballot was a protest vote against Government policy.

Source: The Irish Times March 05, 2026 18:28 UTC