Full Breakdown
Rosie O'Donnell's Return to the U.S. Amid Trump Tensions
2/14/2026, 5:05:24 AM
Background on O'Donnell's Move to Ireland
Rosie O'Donnell relocated to Ireland in January 2025, primarily to escape the political climate under President Donald Trump, who had recently been re-elected. O'Donnell's decision was influenced by her concerns over safety and the political environment in the United States, particularly following Trump's threats to revoke her citizenship due to her outspoken criticism of him.
Recent Visit to the United States
In February 2026, O'Donnell made a brief, unannounced return to the U.S. for two weeks. During an interview on Chris Cuomo's SiriusXM show, she explained that her visit was motivated by a desire to reconnect with her family and assess the current state of the country. "I wanted to see how hard it would be for me to get in and out of the country. I wanted to feel what it felt like. I wanted to hold my children again," she stated. O'Donnell had not returned to the U.S. since her move, making this visit significant for her personal connections.
O'Donnell's Perspective on American Culture
O'Donnell described her experience in the U.S. as jarring, noting that it felt like "a very different country." She attributed this feeling to her year-long absence from American news and culture, stating, "I haven’t been watching the news. I haven’t been watching American culture television." She expressed that living in Ireland provided her with a more balanced perspective, free from what she described as "celebrity worship" prevalent in the U.S. O'Donnell emphasized her satisfaction with her decision to move, asserting, "I don’t regret leaving at all... the energy that I felt while I was in the United States was — if I can use the most simple word I can think of — it was scary."
Criticism of Trump and O'Donnell's Response
O'Donnell's relationship with Trump has been contentious for over two decades, marked by public exchanges of insults. Trump's threats to revoke her citizenship intensified following her move to Ireland, with him labeling her a "Threat to Humanity" on his social media platform. In response, O'Donnell has consistently defended her position, referring to Trump as "a dangerous old soulless man with dementia" and asserting her pride in her American citizenship.
Official Statements & Responses
O'Donnell's recent visit was framed as a personal exploration of safety and familial connection. She indicated that she would consider bringing her daughter back to the U.S. for the summer, contingent on her assessment of the environment. O'Donnell's sentiments reflect a broader concern among some Americans regarding the current political climate and its implications for personal safety and freedom of expression.
What's Next for O'Donnell
Looking ahead, O'Donnell plans to maintain her dual citizenship in both the U.S. and Ireland, emphasizing her commitment to her family in America while enjoying her life abroad. She remains cautious about her future visits, underscoring the ongoing tension between her and Trump, which continues to shape her perspective on living in the United States.
