Tim Walz, the Minnesota governor and now Kamala Harris’s vice-presidential running mate, has Irish roots. However, there is some debate over exactly where in Ireland his ancestors are from.
According to genealogist Megan Smolenyak, who has been tracing politicians’ Irish heritage since Barack Obama’s presidential run, Walz’s family may come from Ferns in County Wexford.
But local experts suggest Kilmore, a nearby village, as the likely origin. His great-grandmother, Laura Ellen Sullivan, carries the distinct Irish surname “Sullivan.” Whether Ferns or Kilmore, there is growing interest in his Irish connection, especially in County Wexford.
Malcolm Byrne, a senator from County Wexford and co-convener of the US-Ireland Parliamentary Friendship Group, expressed hope that this connection could strengthen US-Ireland relations. This link could foster trade, education, culture, and tourism.
Like previous American politicians, including President Joe Biden and John F. Kennedy, Walz could be another Irish-American in the White House.
BBC highlights that Irish ancestry remains significant in US politics, with many politicians emphasizing their Irish roots. The American Census shows that around 31.5 million people in the US claim Irish ancestry, reflecting a strong cultural connection.
This connection often plays a role in political campaigns, as shown by Walz’s and Biden’s frequent mentions of their Irish heritage .
Credit : BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cz5r5yl624ko