Trump Jabs at Rosie O’Donnell During Meeting with Irish Leader, Reviving Long-Standing Feud
Former President Donald Trump reignited his long-running feud with actress and comedian Rosie O’Donnell during a White House meeting with Irish Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Micheál Martin on Wednesday. The unexpected exchange occurred when a reporter questioned Martin about O’Donnell’s recent relocation to Ireland, prompting Trump to interject with a pointed remark about her presence potentially diminishing the country’s overall happiness.
The bizarre incident unfolded as reporters engaged Martin about the perception of Ireland as a joyful and welcoming nation. One reporter directly asked, "Why in the world would you let Rosie O’Donnell move to Ireland? I think she is going to lower your happiness." Before Martin could respond, Trump seized the opportunity to weigh in, stating, "That’s true, I like that question. Do you know you have Rosie O’Donnell? Do you know who she is? You’re better off not knowing."
The exchange highlights the enduring animosity between Trump and O’Donnell, a conflict that has spanned nearly two decades and played out publicly through television appearances, social media, and political rallies.
O’Donnell’s move to Ireland was prompted by her concerns about the political climate in the United States following Trump’s election. The actress, who has been a vocal critic of Trump’s policies and rhetoric, revealed in a TikTok video that she had relocated to Ireland on January 15, just days before Trump’s inauguration, and was in the process of applying for Irish citizenship.
"It’s been pretty wonderful, I have to say," O’Donnell shared in the video. "And the people have been so loving, so kind and so welcoming. And I’m very grateful." She explained that her decision to move was primarily driven by a desire to create a safer and more equitable environment for herself and her youngest child. "Although I was someone who never thought I would move to another country, that’s what I decided would be the best for myself and my 12-year-old child," she stated.
O’Donnell’s decision to leave the U.S. came after years of intense political engagement and activism, particularly aimed at countering what she perceived as harmful policies enacted by the Trump administration. She admitted to spending a significant portion of her time on social media, expressing her opposition to the administration’s actions.
The feud between Trump and O’Donnell dates back to 2006, when O’Donnell criticized Trump on "The View" for his lenient stance toward a Miss USA winner who had faced accusations of drug use and questionable behavior. Trump, then the owner of the Miss Universe Organization, responded by labeling O’Donnell a "real loser." At the time, Trump defended his decision to give Miss USA Tara Conner a second chance, stating, "Tara is a good person. Tara has tried hard. Tara is going to be given a second chance."
The public spat escalated over the years, with both figures exchanging insults and barbs through various media platforms. In 2014, O’Donnell claimed that her feud with Trump resulted in the "most bullying I ever experienced in my life." During the 2015 Republican primary debate, Trump was asked about his history of making disparaging remarks about women, specifically referring to them as "fat pigs" and "slobs." Trump infamously responded, "Only Rosie O’Donnell."
Even during the 2016 presidential election, Trump continued to target O’Donnell, bringing up her name at the Al Smith dinner and joking that "The View" should bring her back to boost its ratings.
Despite the ongoing animosity and the challenges of adjusting to a new country, O’Donnell has expressed contentment with her life in Ireland. "I miss my other kids. I miss my friends. I miss many things about life there at home. And I’m trying to find a home here in this beautiful country," she said, referring to her five grown children who remain in the United States.
O’Donnell indicated that she would consider returning to the U.S. when she believes it is a safe and equitable place for all citizens. "And when it is safe for all citizens to have equal rights there in America, that’s when we will consider coming back," she explained. The actress also expressed hope for positive change in the U.S., stating, "I am hoping that we can turn things around. I’m counting on you, all of you, to do what’s right. And I think deep down inside we all know what that is."
Trump’s latest jab at O’Donnell during the meeting with the Irish Taoiseach underscores the deeply personal nature of their long-standing conflict. While it remains unclear whether O’Donnell will respond to Trump’s comments, the exchange serves as a reminder of the enduring power of personal feuds to shape political discourse and public perception. The incident also throws into sharp relief the complicated and often unpredictable dynamics of international relations, where personal animosities can unexpectedly surface during formal diplomatic engagements. It also calls into question the appropriateness of a former president using an international stage to continue what many deem childish behavior.
