Businesswoman and B Team CEO Halla Tomasdottir has secured victory in Iceland’s presidential election, marking a historic moment for the nation. Tomasdottir, who received 34.3% of the vote, will become the seventh President of Iceland, succeeding Guani Johannesson on August 1, as reported by RUV.
Her win makes her the second woman to hold the office after Vigdis Finnbogadottir, who made history as the world’s first democratically elected female president in 1980. The election saw Tomasdottir surpassing former Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir, who garnered 25.2% of the vote, and Director General Halla Hrund Logadottir, who secured 15.1% of the vote, according to Iceland Review.
Reflecting on Tomasdottir’s victory, Katrin Jakobsdottir expressed her congratulations, stating, “I want to congratulate her, and I know she’ll be a good president.”
Throughout her campaign, Tomasdottir emphasized a message of unity, declaring, “I only see one team in Iceland, and that’s Icelanders.” Her vision for the presidency focused on fostering national dialogue and inclusivity, with aspirations to make Bessastadir, the official residence of Iceland’s president, the symbolic center of Iceland’s collective values.
The high voter turnout of 78.83% reflects widespread civic engagement and interest in the election, with citizens actively participating in shaping the country’s future. Outgoing President Guani Johannesson acknowledged the resonance of Tomasdottir’s message, noting the warm reception it received from voters.
Johannesson also commented on the challenges faced by Katrin Jakobsdottir during the race, particularly regarding her resignation as Iceland’s Prime Minister and leader of the Left-Green Movement to enter the presidential race mid-term. Despite expectations of a closer contest, Tomasdottir’s victory signals a significant shift in Icelandic politics.
With Johannesson’s term concluding on August 1, Iceland prepares for a new chapter under Tomasdottir’s leadership. While the presidency holds limited political powers, the role carries substantial ceremonial duties and influence over Icelandic society, highlighting the significance of this historic moment for the nation.