An Irish cousin of Joe Biden has said it is “just amazing” that he will be running for President.
Biden has Irish heritage on both his father’s and mother’s sides of the family, and has always been fiercely proud of his roots.
The former Vice President, who worked as Barack Obama’s number two for eight years, has now announced he will run for Presidency in the 2020 elections.
Biden’s fourth cousin Laurita Blewitt is from Co Mayo and was interviewed about the announcement by RTÉ Radio One. Laurita said: “Yeah absolutely thrilled. It’s probably the worst kept secret over the last number of months.”
Mr Biden visited Mayo three years ago and spent time with his relatives during the trip.
Laurita added that he is expected to return this summer, saying: “The former Vice President, hopefully now soon to be President, will be coming over this summer, is due to come over this summer and cut the ribbon and open that hospice for us.”
Biden announced he will be standing for Presidency via a Twitter video. He said he could not just stand by and watch as President Trump “fundamentally altered the character of this nation”.
The former Delaware senator posted on Twitter: “The core values of this nation, our standing in the world.
“Our very democracy, everything that has made America — America –is at stake. That’s why today I’m announcing my candidacy for President of the United States.”
Laurita is fully behind her cousin, and told RTE: “His video sums him up pretty good. He’s a great guy and we’re thrilled to know him personally and that he’s running for president, it’s just amazing.”
Take a look at Mr Biden’s announcement video here.
Written by Andrew Moore