The United States could be just days away from electing its first ever female president if the dead heat polls see the vote tip in favour of democratic candidate Kamala Harris . One woman who understands the enormity of such a political first is 80-year-old Mary Robinson who, on 3 December 1990, became the first female president of Ireland - and also its first successful independent candidate, beating the favourite Fianna Fáil candidate Brian Lenihan. “I was elected by the women of Ireland, who instead of rocking the cradle, rocked the system,” she said.
While she was the political leader of a far smaller nation, there is plenty to learn from Mrs Robinson, who in 1996 made divorce legal and, halfway through her term of office, enjoyed a 93% popularity rating. READ MORE: Melania Trump sparks wild 'body double bot' theory with this 'suspicious' fashion choice READ MORE: People convinced Donald Trump will lose election after spotting small detail at rally Like Ms Harris, she is fervently opposed to Donald Trump . “The Trump administration was a disaster,” she said.
”Not only have we seen democracy at risk, but also women’s rights going backwards, which is incredibly sad.” Mrs Robinson resigned her presidency in 1997 to become UN High Commissioner for Human Rights - a position she held until 2002. And only last week, she resigned as chairman of The Elders - a group of world leaders with the goal of combining their wisdom to tackle some of the world’s toughest pro.