In a surprising and controversial statement that has sparked waves across political and entertainment circles, former President Donald Trump recently said he is “considering” revoking actress and comedian Rosie O’Donnell’s U.S. citizenship. While such a suggestion carries no legal merit, the remark has once again thrust into the spotlight one of America’s most public celebrity feuds, a bitter clash that has spanned nearly two decades.
Speaking at a rally over the weekend, Trump, responding to a heckler, pivoted unexpectedly to talk about O’Donnell. “Rosie O’Donnell… what a disaster,” he said. “Frankly, we should consider revoking her citizenship. She’s done nothing but trash this country and attack great Americans like myself. Maybe she’d be happier somewhere else.”
Though clearly made with rhetorical flair rather than legal intent, Trump’s comment drew immediate reactions from political analysts, legal experts, and fans of both figures. O’Donnell, never one to stay silent, fired back on social media, calling Trump a “dictator in waiting” and “a threat to democracy.” The sharp exchange has once again stirred memories of one of America’s most well-documented personal rivalries.
A History of Hostility
The feud between Donald Trump and Rosie O’Donnell began in 2006 when O’Donnell, then co-host of The View, criticized Trump on air following his decision to give Miss USA Tara Conner a second chance after allegations of underage drinking and drug use. O’Donnell mocked Trump’s appearance, questioned his business acumen, and labeled him a “snake-oil salesman.” Trump immediately lashed back, calling her “a real loser,” “disgusting,” and “a slob.”
What began as a celebrity spat quickly escalated into a relentless war of words. Over the years, Trump repeatedly insulted O’Donnell during interviews, press conferences, and especially on social media. Even during his 2016 presidential campaign, Trump made a controversial remark during a debate where he said, “Only Rosie O’Donnell” when defending his past insults against women. The audience laughed, but many critics saw it as yet another unprovoked personal attack.
For her part, O’Donnell has consistently fired back, using her platform to criticize Trump’s policies, demeanor, and fitness for office. She has been a vocal critic of Trump’s presidency, often using biting humor and political commentary to highlight her disdain. The feud has become emblematic of the deep divides in American political and celebrity culture.
Legal Impossibility, Political Symbolism
While Trump’s statement about revoking citizenship has no legal standing—since the U.S. Constitution protects against revoking citizenship from natural-born citizens—many analysts see it as a strategic move to rile up his base and shift the conversation.
Revoking someone’s citizenship is an extraordinary measure generally reserved for naturalized citizens in rare cases of fraud or acts of treason, and even then it is subject to extensive judicial scrutiny. Rosie O’Donnell, a native-born citizen of New York, is not eligible for any such action.
But Trump has long used hyperbole and dramatic declarations to dominate headlines and command media attention. This latest jab at O’Donnell may not be about actual policy but about reigniting old culture wars that once fueled his rise.
Culture War Redux
The Trump-O’Donnell feud resonates because it represents more than just two strong personalities clashing. It is a reflection of America’s culture wars, media polarization, and the line where politics and entertainment blur. Trump, a real estate mogul turned reality TV star, and O’Donnell, a comedian turned political commentator, have both played significant roles in shaping the nation’s discourse in their own ways.
To his supporters, Trump’s comments are vintage Trump—unapologetic, tough, and “telling it like it is.” To his critics, it’s another example of authoritarian rhetoric meant to intimidate dissenters. O’Donnell, similarly, is viewed by her fans as brave and outspoken, while detractors often label her as unnecessarily combative and politically extreme.
This decades-long feud mirrors the polarization in the country. Each new insult is not just about two celebrities but becomes a proxy battle in the ongoing struggle between conservative and liberal values.
O’Donnell’s Response
Rosie O’Donnell wasted no time in responding to Trump’s latest comments. Posting on her social media platforms, she wrote, “This is not a game. You do not revoke citizenship because someone hurt your feelings. I’m an American—born and raised—and I will not be silenced by a fascist.”
She also appeared on a late-night talk show shortly after the incident, saying, “Trump doesn’t understand the Constitution. He doesn’t understand women. And he certainly doesn’t understand that I’m not going anywhere.”
O’Donnell, who has also battled personal issues publicly including health struggles and family matters, has used her experiences to champion causes like mental health awareness and LGBTQ+ rights. Her critics may view her as divisive, but her supporters argue that she has used her platform to speak truth to power.
Conclusion: A Political Circus or Something More?
While Trump’s remark about revoking Rosie O’Donnell’s citizenship is legally impossible and likely intended as a theatrical flourish, it reignites one of the most enduring feuds in modern American pop-political history. It’s a reminder of how deeply personality politics has permeated public discourse—and how personal grievances can become national talking points.
As the country heads into another heated election season, this revived clash serves as both a spectacle and a warning. When politics becomes performative and entertainment becomes political, the line between rhetoric and reality blurs. In this world, even a sarcastic jab can fuel headlines for days—and reflect a much deeper divide in American society.
