Mick Wallace Faces Backlash for ‘Disgusting’ AI Clip of Connolly

UPDATE: Mick Wallace is under fire for sharing a controversial AI-generated video of newly elected President Catherine Connolly, labeled “disgusting” by critics. The backlash comes just hours after Connolly was confirmed as the tenth President of Ireland on October 25, 2025, following her decisive victory with 63.3% of the votes against Fine Gael’s Heather Humphreys, who secured 29.5%.

The video, which features Connolly in a tri-colour balaclava holding a large gun, has sparked outrage across social media. Wallace, a former MEP and supporter of Connolly, posted the clip shortly after Connolly’s election victory was announced at a ceremony in Dublin Castle. Critics are expressing shock at the timing and content of the post.

“Absolutely outrageous AI-generated clip,” tweeted user @Dub8Lady, urging Connolly and her supporters to condemn the video. Another user questioned Wallace’s judgment, stating, “Bizarre that a previously elected politician would think it appropriate to post this on the day Connolly is elected…”

In his defense, Wallace claimed that the mainstream media attempted to undermine Connolly’s presidential bid. He stated, “They failed…” referencing the media’s efforts to protect establishment interests during the campaign.

Connolly, backed by a coalition of left-wing parties, including Sinn Féin and the Social Democrats, faced significant scrutiny throughout the election process. The campaign culminated in a tense day of counting votes, with Humphreys conceding shortly after 2 PM on election day.

The controversy over Wallace’s video highlights the intense emotions surrounding this historic election. As the first female President of Ireland, Connolly’s election is seen as a major milestone for the nation. Yet, the fallout from Wallace’s actions raises questions about political decorum and the impact of social media on public figures.

As public reaction continues to unfold, all eyes will be on Connolly and her response to the backlash. Will she address Wallace’s provocative video directly? What measures will her administration take to confront the challenges posed by divisive political rhetoric?

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.