Tim Walz, the vice-presidential running mate of Kamala Harris, is the latest American politician with roots tracing back to Ireland, though the exact origins of his ancestors are still debated. Walz, the 41st governor of Minnesota, is believed to have ancestral ties to County Wexford, specifically to the town of Ferns, according to American genealogist Megan Smolenyak, who has been researching the heritage of politicians since Barack Obama's first presidential campaign in 2008.
However, some local genealogists suggest that Walz’s ancestors might actually be from Kilmore, about 52 kilometers away. Smolenyak, speaking with BBC News NI, noted that Walz is "about 1/8th Irish," pointing out that his ancestors migrated to Wisconsin, Iowa, and Nebraska. She found records indicating that Walz's great-grandmother was Laura Ellen Sullivan, a surname that strongly suggests Irish roots.
The search continues for distant relatives of Walz, who could potentially be another American president with Irish connections. Regardless of the outcome of the US presidential election, Fianna Fáil senator Malcolm Byrne from County Wexford hopes to establish a connection with Walz. He mentioned that local historians and genealogists are examining the US-based research, initially thinking the link might be to Ferns, but now considering Kilmore as a possible origin.
As the 2024 presidential election approaches, the Emerald Isle is poised to maintain a connection to top-level US politics. Walz joins JD Vance, who was chosen as Donald Trump's vice-presidential pick and claims Scots-Irish heritage. Joe Biden, who proudly highlights his Irish roots from County Mayo and County Louth, continues to emphasize his heritage.
According to the US Census Bureau, about 31.5 million Americans, or roughly 9.5% of the population, report Irish ancestry, with New England having the highest concentration. Irish emigration peaked during the Great Famine, when nearly two million Irish people, about a quarter of the population, moved to the US.
County Wexford has already made its mark in American history through John F. Kennedy, whose family hailed from Dunganstown in the county. Kennedy’s eight great-grandparents all emigrated from Ireland to Massachusetts during the Great Famine.
Ms. Smolenyak reflects on Irish-American identity in politics, noting that the connection to Ireland often influences perceptions of politicians. In County Wexford, interest in Walz's potential success is growing. Dean of Ferns, Paul Mooney, expressed hope that a successful Walz would be seen as a positive for the region.
Senator Byrne views the Irish link as a chance to strengthen ties with the US. As a member of the Ireland-US Parliamentary Friendship group, he believes that such connections can enhance relations in trade, education, culture, and tourism.
