Rosie O’Donnell is not fazed by Donald Trump’s recent threat to revoke her U.S. citizenship, claiming she poses “a threat to humanity.” The comedian and actress commented on this during an interview on RTÉ Radio, sharing that she has become part of a long line of artists and activists targeted by the former president.
O’Donnell emphasized that while she doesn’t take the comments personally, they do reflect a broader issue. “He has emboldened people like him,” she pointed out. This sentiment resonates with many who feel that Trump’s rhetoric has inspired aggressive actions against critics of his administration.
Trump’s comments were posted on his platform, Truth Social. He said, “Because of the fact that Rosie O’Donnell is not in the best interests of our Great Country, I am giving serious consideration to taking away her citizenship.” This claim has little legal backing and raises concerns about the appropriateness of executive power being used in this way.
The backdrop to this feud is significant. O’Donnell moved to Ireland earlier this year after Trump was re-elected, and their rivalry dates back over two decades. Following Trump’s remarks, she took to Instagram, saying, “You want to revoke my citizenship? Go ahead and try, king Joffrey with a tangerine spray tan. I’m not yours to silence.” The reference to Joffrey, a notorious villain from Game of Thrones, illustrates her disdain.
This escalating drama has sparked conversations on social media. Users often share mixed reactions, pointing out the absurdity of a sitting president threatening a celebrity’s citizenship. Many supporters of Trump seem to rally behind these comments, while critics are alarmed by what they see as an erosion of democratic principles.
Moreover, a recent survey indicates that about 60% of Americans believe that threats to citizenship for political dissenters are harmful to democracy. This highlights a growing concern regarding freedom of speech and the treatment of public figures in political discourse.
In a world increasingly influenced by social media, public figures have become both targets and defenders of free speech. O’Donnell’s defiance reflects a broader sentiment among artists who see their role as speaking out against injustice. As this feud continues, it raises essential questions about power, influence, and the limits of free expression in today’s political climate.
For further context, the ACLU has documented numerous instances where citizenship rights have been questioned or undermined. They emphasize the importance of protecting citizens’ rights irrespective of political opinions.
O’Donnell’s spirited response keeps the conversation alive about the intersection of celebrity, politics, and the ongoing struggle for free expression in America.