Jim Acosta Captivates Crowds at Urgent Kennedy Summer School

URGENT UPDATE: CNN’s Jim Acosta stole the spotlight at the Kennedy Summer School (KSS) in New Ross, Ireland, captivating audiences with his recounts of tense moments in the White House. The festival, which kicked off this week, is drawing record attendance as it dives deep into Irish politics, culture, and history.

The KSS, held from October 10 to 13, has seen sold-out crowds eager to engage in discussions ranging from the origins of the term “fake news” to contemporary debates on Irish presidential candidates. Acosta’s insights into his tenure as Chief White House Correspondent at CNN resonated particularly well, as he reflected on his complex relationship with former President Trump, leaving attendees buzzing with commentary.

The festival commenced with the Global Horizons Trade and Economic Forum, focusing on pressing issues such as tariffs, corporation tax, and the challenges posed by AI. Organizers, including Wexford County Council, highlighted the importance of these topics, with an emphasis on enhancing competitiveness within the EU.

One of the festival’s standout events was a reenactment of the famous tea party hosted for JFK in 1963, featuring RTE broadcaster Seán O’Rourke. The event evoked nostalgia, as O’Rourke and former TD Seán Connick discussed pivotal moments from Irish history, drawing laughter and reflection from the crowd.

The KSS officially opened on Thursday evening, led by GAA President Jarlath Burns, who emphasized the festival’s role in fostering dialogue. The evening wrapped up with a screening of “From That Small Island,” a documentary chronicling Ireland’s rich history, further engaging the audience.

On Friday, Minister for Further and Higher Education James Lawless attended the Speakers’ Lunch, while that evening, journalists from both sides of the Atlantic gathered for a panel on the value of local journalism. Acclaimed author Colm Tóibín shared poignant anecdotes about life in Trump’s America, predicting significant political shifts ahead.

The festival’s discussions also touched on global issues, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and the potential for a financial crisis linked to evolving tariff regimes. Notably, attendees were struck by the reluctance of American participants to critique Israel, showcasing the complexity of contemporary political discourse.

The third day of the KSS featured critical debates on housing, the evolving identity of Irish America, and the race for the Áras, drawing significant interest from political enthusiasts. As the festival wraps up, US Ambassador Edward Walsh closed the event, echoing President Kennedy’s sentiment that solutions arise not from party lines but from seeking the right answers.

KSS Chair Eileen Dunne concluded the festivities with a promise to return next year, rallying support for ongoing discussions that resonate with Irish and American audiences alike.

This year’s KSS has proven to be a vital platform for addressing pressing issues, engaging global audiences in a dialogue that extends well beyond the borders of Ireland. With conversations continuing to unfold, the urgency and relevance of these discussions remain clear as the festival closes its curtains.

Stay tuned for more updates as we follow the continuing impact of the Kennedy Summer School on the political landscape.