Comedian Rosie O’Donnell stated during a CNN interview on Friday that she believes President Trump will not survive until the end of his current term in 2029. O’Donnell, who relocated to Ireland in early 2025 following the president’s re-election, cited the president’s recent public verbal errors as evidence of his declining health. The White House has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding these claims.
The Escalation of the O’Donnell-Trump Feud
The exchange on CNN’s The Lead with Jake Tapper marks the latest chapter in a long-standing public conflict between the two figures. When asked by Tapper if she would return to the United States before the 2028 election cycle, O’Donnell argued that the president’s “demise is visible and apparent.” She pointed to specific instances from the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, where the president appeared to confuse the names of world leaders and nations.
Did you know? Rosie O’Donnell moved to Ireland in January 2025, citing a shifting political climate in the U.S. and her history of tension with the president.
Presidential Response and Legal Threats
President Trump has frequently utilized Truth Social to respond to O’Donnell’s criticisms. In July 2025, the president wrote that he was giving “serious consideration” to revoking O’Donnell’s citizenship, labeling her a “threat to humanity.” He reiterated this stance in September 2025, stating that he does not view her as a “great American.”
This follows a history of public hostility that dates back years. The president’s social media posts have consistently targeted O’Donnell’s residency in Ireland, suggesting she should remain there permanently.
Public Perception and Media Commentary
The discourse surrounding the president’s mental acuity has moved into mainstream media commentary. During the CNN segment, Jake Tapper noted instances where the president referred to the Islamic Republic of Iran as the “Islamic Republic of Japan.” O’Donnell characterized these slips as “obvious understandings of his dementia,” comparing them to a relative who might be deemed unsafe to handle daily tasks.
This media focus extends to late-night programming as well. Jimmy Kimmel announced in June that he invited O’Donnell to guest host his program for a week in August, framing the appearance as a “special treat” intended to provoke a reaction from the president.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is Rosie O’Donnell living? O’Donnell moved to Ireland in January 2025 with her teenage son.
- Has the president threatened O’Donnell’s citizenship? Yes, the president wrote on Truth Social in July 2025 that he was considering revoking her citizenship due to her vocal opposition to his administration.
- When is O’Donnell scheduled to host Jimmy Kimmel’s show? She is set to begin a one-week stint as guest host on August 17.
- What sparked the recent CNN interview comments? O’Donnell discussed the president’s health after being asked about the conditions under which she might return to the United States.
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