Sinn Féin, the former political arm of the IRA, is hoping Ireland's 2024 election will bring it to power for the first time ever.

The outgoing government was led by the two parties that have dominated Irish politics for the past century: Fine Gael and Fianna Fail. They have similar policies, but are longtime rivals with origins on opposing sides of Ireland’s 1920s civil war. After the 2020 election ended in a virtual dead heat, they formed a coalition.

The parties may face prolonged negotiations or an unstable coalition ahead of the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, whose pledge to slash corporate tax and impose tariffs poses a major threat to the Irish economy.

Counting has begun in the Irish general election, as exit polls suggest a close contest between the three major parties.

Counting begins in Ireland as the ruling center-right coalition looks set for re-election:::: Dublin, IrelandThe exit poll put the left wing Sinn Fein on 21.1%, the center-right Fine Gael of Prime Minister Simon Harris on 21.

Join Chris Buckler and Elaine McGee for live coverage of the race for the Dáil.

Counting is underway in Ireland’s general election where the exit polls have the three main parties virtually neck and neck. “We are so appreciative for everybody who came out and voted for us,” said Sinn Fein President Mary Lou McDonald.