Staff Reports
Rosie O’Donnell, the outspoken comedian and longtime critic of Donald Trump, has made headlines with her decision to leave the United States and settle in Ireland. Her move, which took place on January 15, just days before Trump’s second inauguration, has been framed as a response to what she describes as the deteriorating political and social climate in America under Trump’s leadership. Accompanied by her 12-year-old daughter, Dakota, O’Donnell is now pursuing Irish citizenship through her grandparents’ heritage while adjusting to life in Dublin.
O’Donnell has been candid about her reasons for leaving, citing concerns over equality and safety in the U.S. She has stated that she will only consider returning when “all citizens have equal rights” in America. Her departure comes amid her ongoing feud with Trump, which dates back to 2006 when she criticized him on The View for his handling of a Miss USA scandal. Over the years, their public animosity has escalated, with Trump labeling her a “loser” and O’Donnell calling him “mentally unstable.” Her move to Ireland appears to be both a personal and political statement against the current administration.
In Ireland, O’Donnell has expressed gratitude for the warm welcome she has received from locals, describing the country as “beautiful” and its people as “kind and loving.” However, she has also admitted to missing her older children and aspects of her life in America. Despite these challenges, she remains committed to building a new home for herself and her youngest child. Her decision reflects a broader dissatisfaction among some Americans who feel alienated by recent political developments.
The move has not been without controversy. During a White House meeting with Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin, Trump mocked O’Donnell’s relocation, jokingly questioning why Ireland would allow her to move there. The incident prompted O’Donnell to apologize to Martin for being placed in an awkward position. Meanwhile, critics have questioned whether celebrities like O’Donnell are out of touch with ordinary Americans, given their ability to relocate abroad while continuing to comment on U.S. politics from afar.
O’Donnell’s relocation underscores the deep divisions in contemporary American society and highlights the growing trend of politically motivated moves among public figures. While some view her actions as a principled stand against perceived injustices, others see it as an example of celebrity privilege disconnected from the realities faced by everyday citizens. Whether her time in Ireland will bring about personal peace or further fuel her critiques of American politics remains to be seen. For now, O’Donnell seems content with her decision, even as it continues to spark debate on both sides of the Atlantic.
