President Donald Trump escalated his long-running feud with comedian Rosie O’Donnell Saturday, threatening on social media to revoke her U.S. citizenship.
“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,” Trump wrote. “She is a Threat to Humanity, and should remain in the wonderful Country of Ireland, if they want her. GOD BLESS AMERICA!”
O’Donnell, who moved to Ireland with her 12-year-old non-binary, autistic child earlier this year, posted earlier this week on Instagram and TikTok that Trump is “a criminal con man … who lacks empathy, compassion, and basic humanity.” She criticized Trump’s leadership and policies, calling him a “dangerous old soulless man” and a “mentally ill untreated criminal.”
Legal experts were quick to note that the U.S. Constitution prohibits a president from unilaterally revoking the citizenship of a U.S.-born citizen. Again, O’Donnell was born in New York, making her a natural-born citizen.
This is not the first time Trump has threatened to revoke or challenge the citizenship or immigration status of individuals critical of him. Previous cases include first-generation Americans or naturalized citizens or international students who faced threats of losing their status over social media posts critical of Trump’s policies, some allege intimidation tactics related to their visas or citizenship status.
The feud between Trump and O’Donnell dates back to 2006, when O’Donnell criticized Trump on “The View.” Since then, they have exchanged insults and criticisms on various platforms. O’Donnell has been a vocal critic of Trump’s policies, particularly his stance on LGBTQ+ rights and his handling of environmental issues.
In response to Trump’s latest remarks, O’Donnell emphasized her commitment to truth and decency, stating that she moved to Ireland for the well-being of her child and to live in a place that values equality and safety.
This latest chapter in their feud highlights the deep divisions in American politics and the personal animosities that often accompany them.
