For weeks, the Republic of Ireland looked like a rare Western democracy bent on defying the global trend of tossing out its government.
But now, just days before voters cast their ballots on Friday, Ireland’s election has suddenly gotten more interesting.
An uncharacteristic misstep by the popular prime minister, Simon Harris, and a bounce back in the polls by the main opposition party, Sinn Fein, has churned the waters.
Mr. Harris, a 38-year-old career politician who has been an energetic leader of Fine Gael, is under intense pressure after a brusque exchange with a voter was caught on camera and went viral on social media.
The episode, analysts said, could cost Mr. Harris his job as Taoiseach, or prime minister.
Persons:
Fianna Fáil, Simon Harris, Sinn Fein, Harris
Organizations:
Fine Gael, Fianna, Greens, Labour Party
Locations:
Republic of Ireland, Ireland, Ireland’s