Rosie O’Donnell: Trump’s Actions Prompt Autistic Child’s Move to Ireland

Rosie O’Donnell has revealed the personal impact of Donald Trump’s presidency on her family, leading them to relocate to Ireland. Speaking on CNN’s Jim Acosta Show, O’Donnell shared that her non-binary autistic child, Clay, expressed anger towards Trump, believing his actions forced their family to leave the United States for safety.

Reasons for Relocation

Describing their move as a “self-imposed exile,” O’Donnell and her family decided to leave shortly before Trump’s inauguration in January 2025. She explained that Clay’s emotional reaction reflected an awareness of political issues, intensifying their feelings due to their autism.

Family Dynamics and Celebrity Influence

• O’Donnell felt the need to protect her child from the frustrations of political discourse.
• She has expressed gratitude for the kindness of locals in Ireland while admitting she misses certain aspects of life in the U.S.

Online Reaction

The backlash from social media was swift and critical. Many users expressed discontent with O’Donnell’s viewpoint, suggesting she should take personal responsibility for her decision. Critics pointed out that her statements might be projecting her political grievances onto her child.

Longstanding Feud with Trump

This situation has reignited O’Donnell’s long public feud with Trump, which has spanned nearly two decades. Trump has frequently targeted her in speeches and online, recently calling her a “Threat to Humanity.”

Political Context

O’Donnell’s comments touch on the broader trend of celebrities repositioning themselves in response to political climates. This highlights the intersection of celebrity culture and political discourse, raising questions about how public figures navigate such transitions.

The combination of family challenges with political polarization exemplifies how deeply intertwined personal and political lives have become. The ensuing conversation underscores the varying perspectives on celebrity politics, particularly when it affects children.