Back in 1992, at the Irish American Presidential Forum in Manhattan, Bill Clinton would utter words that would reverberate over time, into his presidency, and beyond it.
Clinton did not utter words supporting a united Ireland. But he did say things that would turn America's eye towards Ireland in a manner that had never been seen before.
So, a question. Has President Trump turned America's eye again with his words in Ireland last weekend that quite clearly stated his support for Irish unity?
In the past we have heard much support from American political leaders for the Good Friday Agreement which has in its pages the potential for a vote leading to a united Ireland.
But the GFA is like an egg. All manner of possibilities can be found in the yoke. But with specific regard to unity there's a hard shell around the yoke that had yet to be cracked.
So, is there a crack now given what President Trump has said with regard to reunification? Or is it merely a chip?
Some, of course, will take Trump's words with a pinch of salt. Some will contend that Trump was merely creating headlines to distract from other issues that stand high in Ireland, not least Gaza and the plight of the Palestinians. It has been stated that Trump was merely trying to cause discomfort for British Prime Minister Andy Burnham and his government. Regardless of reason or motive, Trump, to be sure, is a master of distraction.
But as long as the president does not reverse course his words on unity will stand; and stand loudly.
Trump has no role or say in a unity process. His words are merely opinion. But they are the words of a serving president and they have now been introduced into America's political bloodstream.
It is open to politicians in both parties to respond if they so choose. A response can come at local, state and congressional level.
We can be certain that Trump's words will find their way into the political discourse generated by the 2028 presidential election. Irish America will see to that.
So, we have entered a new phase, uncharted territory. President Trump might not utter another word on the matter of a reunited Ireland.
But he doesn't have to. He has said all he needs to say.
