Kevin Cunningham

Jan 11, 2025 | independent.ie | Kevin Cunningham

Although Fianna Fáil’s vote share declined in the general election, as the largest party its “win” has created a sort of halo effect. This momentum has also carried through to perceptions of the new government. In our poll, 55pc expressed satisfaction (either “very satisfied” or “somewhat satisfied”) with the outcome of a government consisting of Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and Regional Independents. This 55pc is actually a very strong result.

Nov 30, 2024 | independent.ie | Kevin Cunningham

Kevin Cunningham: FF-FG coalition is now so tightly knit it can only be broken up at huge risk to both partiesSinn Féin must live with what is an extremely disappointing result as Green supporters may look to Soc Dems and LabourFianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin celebrates after he was elected. Photo: PARather incredibly, given the volatility in voter preferences over the past four-and-a-half years, we’ve ended up in terms of vote share at almost exactly the same place as in 2020.

Nov 23, 2024 | independent.ie | Kevin Cunningham

Wide-open campaign reveals a ‘gap’ in the political market – it’s still all to play forOne in three voters have still to make up their minds on their first preferencePeadar Tóibín speaks during last week's RTÉ leaders' debate. Tuesday's debate on RTÉ will be confined to the leaders of the three biggest partiesAs we turn towards the final week of this electoral cycle, things are starting to clarify in the minds of voters.

Nov 16, 2024 | independent.ie | Kevin Cunningham

Transfer window could slam shut on Sinn Féin’s election hopesMary Lou McDonald’s party will find it tough to secure any second picks as Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil likely to pass on votes to each otherSinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald launching manifesto.

Nov 2, 2024 | independent.ie | Kevin Cunningham

Poll results: Trust is in decline as voters opt for parties over candidates A declaration of coalition intentions is also a key concern for electorate as key players avoid the big questionMicheál Martin, Simon Harris and Roderic O’Gorman lead the coalition governmentElection campaigns matter — and what this poll shows is how much they can matter in terms of the difference between parties and their respective candidates. Clearly, some parties have a natural advantage in terms of their candidates.