On his ‘Truth Social’ platform, Trump described Walsh as a “champion golfer,” calling it “a very good asset for the Ambassador of Ireland to have.” However, he did not mention any potential visit by Walsh to the Trump International Golf Club in Doonbeg, County Clare.
In related appointments, Trump on Saturday named Devin Nunes, CEO of his social media platform, as chairman of the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board. This panel provides independent evaluations of U.S. intelligence agencies. Trump also announced that former acting Director of National Intelligence Richard Grenell would serve as “Presidential Envoy for Special Missions,” focusing on areas of geopolitical tension, including Venezuela and North Korea.
Donald Trump nominates real estate and construction businessman, Edward Walsh, to be ambassador to Ireland: The current US ambassador to Ireland is Claire Cronin, who was appointed to the role by Joe Biden in 2021 https://t.co/eAWNxJ2Kka pic.twitter.com/zBwPgkSMfO
— Ireland’s Property District (@PropDistrict) December 16, 2024
“Ric will work in some of the hottest spots around the world, including Venezuela and North Korea,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “He will continue to fight for Peace through Strength and always put AMERICA FIRST.” Trump did not mention other countries like Iran in his announcement.
Grenell, who previously served as ambassador to Germany and as a special envoy for Serbia-Kosovo peace talks during Trump’s first term, is expected to leverage his experience in this new role.
Nunes, a former U.S. congressman and staunch Trump ally, previously chaired the House Intelligence Committee, where he alleged FBI misconduct during its investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. Nunes will continue his role as CEO of Truth Social while chairing the intelligence panel.
“Devin will draw on his experience as former Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee and his key role in exposing the Russia, Russia, Russia Hoax to provide me with independent assessments of the U.S. Intelligence Community’s activities,” Trump stated.