THE PRESIDENT’S KIN : A New Branch on the Clinton Family Tree?
The Emergence of a California man who says he is President Clinton’s long-lost half brother has thrown the spotlight on Clinton’s family once again. Henry Ritzenthaler of Paradise says he and Clinton have the same father: W.J. Blythe. Until now, media accounts of Clinton’s humble upbringing have said he was Blythe’s only son. Here, incorporating Ritzenthaler’s claims, is the Clinton family tree:
William Jefferson Blythe (Clinton’s father). In 1935, Blythe marries Adele Gash Coffelt. Henry Leon Ritzenthaler (Clinton’s possible half brother born 1938).
In 1942, Blythe marries Virginia Cassidy (Clinton’s mother). Bill Clinton born 1946.
Dick Kelly, mother’s fourth husband*
Jim Dwire, Mother’s third husband*
In 1950, Clinton’s mother marries her second husband, Roger Clinton*. Clinton’s half brother, Roger Clinton Jr., born in 1956.
ABOUT RITZENTHALER:
Age: 55
Party registration: Republican
1992 presidential vote: Bill Clinton
Quote: “All I would like to do is meet the man. I would be honored to get to know him a little.”
* Clinton has three stepbrothers and three stepsisters from his mother’s second, third and fourth husbands.
Sources: Public records, Washington Post, Associated Press
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