Rosie O’Donnell Discusses Her Move to Ireland and Reflections on Trump
Rosie O’Donnell has opened up about her reasons for relocating to Ireland after the re-election of President Donald Trump. During her guest appearance on RTÉ’s Late Late Show, she conveyed her thoughts on a moment that she characterized as “surreal,” where Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin was asked about her decision to move.
Trump’s Remarks on O’Donnell’s Move
On the show, a clip was played featuring Prime Minister Martin and Trump reacting to a reporter’s question: “Why in the world would you let Rosie O’Donnell move to Ireland? I think she’s going to lower your happiness levels.”Trump amusingly responded, expressing his preference to not know O’Donnell better. This prompted O’Donnell to reach out to Martin, apologizing for the uncomfortable situation. She explained, “I felt very troubled that they put the taoiseach in that position and didn’t treat him with the respect that a leader of that kind deserves when he’s visiting The White House.”
Reflections on Past Conflicts with Trump
O’Donnell’s contentious relationship with Trump is rooted in their interactions since 2006, primarily stemming from her comments during her time as a co-host on ABC’s The View. She stated, “I told the truth about him, mentioning his bankruptcies and sexual assault allegations. He became very angry and hasn’t let it go. He uses me as a punchline whenever he feels the need.” Her bewilderment continues even after two decades: “He’s been doing it for two decades and I’m still not used to it every time he does.”
Recent Decisions and Irish Heritage
O’Donnell disclosed that her plans to move to Ireland were conceptualized two months before she arrived, on January 15, 2023, just before Trump’s second inauguration. Although she considered the move unlikely, it was largely encouraged by her therapist, emphasizing that returning to her ancestral home felt right. “My grandparents are from here.. .. I’m a hundred percent Irish on my 23 and Me,”she said. “So there was no option,” she affirmed, indicating her deep personal connection to Ireland.
Concerns About American Politics
While reflecting on the political climate, O’Donnell voiced her skepticism regarding Trump’s victory, especially in light of support from influential figures like Elon Musk, who reportedly contributed over $250 million to his campaign. “I question why, for the first time in American history, a president has won every swing state while also having his largest donor being someone who runs the internet,”she stated, calling for a thorough examination of the election results.
The Impact on Family and Safety
During Trump’s first term, O’Donnell remained in the U.S. but expressed heightened concerns over the future, particularly regarding the welfare of her autistic child, Clay. She noted, “He disbanded the Department of Education, which jeopardizes services for many autistic children. The powers he gained from the Supreme Court made it feel different this time.”O’Donnell emphasized her parental duties, stating that she wanted to create a calm environment for her children: “My child needs me to be in control and calm.”
Life in Ireland and Family Dynamics
Interestingly, O’Donnell’s daughter, Clay, has embraced their new life in Ireland. “She told me at dinner about two weeks ago, ‘Mommy, I like it here better. You can just be a normal person,'” O’Donnell shared, highlighting their positive adjustment to life abroad.
Long-term Plans and Reflections
When asked if she felt a pull to return to the U.S. to fight against policies she disagrees with, O’Donnell responded affirmatively, indicating her lifelong activism for rights. However, she prioritizes her family, stating she plans to stay in Ireland until her daughter completes secondary school, which begins in August.
Mental Health Benefits After Relocation
In a TikTok video posted shortly before her interview, O’Donnell mentioned experiencing notable mental health improvements since her relocation, stating, “It’s not easy to move to another country, but we felt this was the safest thing for us. Sadly, what’s happening in the U.S. is overwhelmingly depressing.” She concluded by affirming she feels healthier and more at peace, away from the stress of American politics.
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