Vivek Ramaswamy, a prominent figure in American politics, publicly dismissed the notion of “Heritage Americans” during his speech at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona, on December 15, 2025. His remarks targeted a growing narrative within certain segments of the conservative online community, which he believes undermines a unified American identity.
Ramaswamy articulated his views on national identity, criticizing the idea that lineage should determine one’s authenticity as an American. “There’s a different vision of American identity that’s emergent in certain corridors of the online right,” he stated. He expressed concerns that this perspective suggests that an individual’s connection to America is defined by their ancestry, a concept he deemed flawed.
The term “Heritage Americans” is often used to describe individuals who trace their roots back to the early days of the United States, particularly those whose families were present during or before the Revolutionary era. Ramaswamy framed this belief as an exclusionary view that erroneously prioritizes bloodlines over shared national identity. “It’s about as loony as anything the woke left has actually put up,” he asserted, emphasizing that “there is no American who is more American than somebody else.”
Ramaswamy’s comments reflect a broader concern regarding the polarization of American identity. He argued against the idea of nonbinary identities within nationality, stating, “Either you’re an American or you’re not.” This binary perspective aligns with his vision of a more inclusive American identity, one that transcends heritage and lineage.
His address at the conservative youth conference resonated with attendees, many of whom gathered to discuss national identity and conservative values. The event, which spans multiple days, serves as a platform for young conservatives to engage with political issues and ideas.
As discussions about national identity continue to evolve, Ramaswamy’s stance underscores a significant debate within American politics. His remarks at AmericaFest 2025 contribute to the ongoing dialogue about what it means to be an American in an increasingly diverse society.
