Comedian Rosie O’Donnell has opened up about her recent move to Ireland, which she relocated to following the re-election of Donald Trump in 2024. O’Donnell shared her child Clay’s reaction to the family’s departure from the United States, expressing that it has been a source of frustration for her child. Clay, who is nonbinary and autistic, reportedly reacted with frustration, saying, “Damn him. Damn Trump,” and demonstrating their anger by slamming their hand on a table.
During her appearance on the Jim Acosta Show on November 28, O’Donnell recounted her child’s terse remarks, indicating that Clay feels their safety was compromised, forcing the family to leave the country. Despite her own feelings about the situation, O’Donnell stated she does not want her child to be overwhelmed by her criticisms of Trump, adding, “Somebody can tap me out, you know? I did 22 years. I don’t really need to do [it] anymore.”
Throughout her television appearance, O’Donnell criticized Trump, calling him a “pig” for his derogatory remarks towards journalists, referencing the viral video in which Trump insulted reporter Catherine Lucey. O’Donnell expressed her outrage at the normalization of such behavior, stating that anyone else would be fired for treating others in such a disrespectful way. She also accused Trump of exploiting recent tragedies, specifically the shooting of two National Guard members in Washington D.C., to push his agenda on immigration.
The tragic incident resulted in the death of National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom and left fellow member Andrew Wolfe hospitalized. Following the shooting, Trump announced a controversial “permanent pause” on immigration from “Third World Countries,” linking it back to the ongoing national dialogue about immigration and security.
O’Donnell has consistently voiced her disapproval of Trump’s policies and actions on social media. In a previous exchange, Trump threatened to revoke O’Donnell’s American citizenship, which prompted her to pursue Irish citizenship, citing her familial ties to Ireland. O’Donnell’s determination to obtain this citizenship comes amid ongoing tensions with Trump’s administration and his attempts to silence dissenting voices.
Her journey reflects a broader narrative of many who feel disillusioned by the current political climate in the United States, seeking refuge or a fresh start in other countries. O’Donnell’s commitment to activism and her children’s well-being showcases a blend of humor and seriousness that resonates with many who share her views on the state of American politics. As she embarks on this new chapter in Ireland, there is hope for a more peaceful environment for her family, as they navigate their own experiences in a changing world.