Rosie O'Donnell has relocated to Ireland, seeking a change amid a tense political climate in the United States, and the comedian and actor, well-known for her long-running public disagreement with President Donald Trump, cites both political and personal factors behind her decision to apply for Irish citizenship with her 12-year-old child.

O'Donnell's retreat from America follows a protracted public conflict with Trump, which began in 2006 after a contentious comment about leniency towards Miss USA winner Tara Conner on The View, as Fox News reports.

That remark triggered a war of words, with Trump responding by labeling her a "real loser." Since then, O'Donnell has been a vocal critic of Trump, particularly during his initial presidential campaign. Her criticisms have not abated over the years, particularly now that he is in the White House for a second term.

O'Donnell Moves to Ireland with Family

O'Donnell's journey to Ireland was set in motion on Jan. 15, just before Trump's inauguration. She expressed a desire for safety and equal rights as a driving force for this major life change.

"Although I was someone who never thought I would move to another country, that's what I decided would be the best for myself and my 12-year-old child," she stated, emphasizing the importance of her family's welfare.

The comedian has embraced her new Irish surroundings, reporting that her experience has been overwhelmingly positive.

"It's been pretty wonderful, I have to say. And the people have been so loving, so kind, and so welcoming. I'm very grateful," O'Donnell reflected on her new home, suggesting that despite the distance, she remains active and engaged politically.

O'Donnell's Political Views and Personal Reflections

Despite her new locale, O'Donnell has maintained her critical stance on American politics, often using social media platforms like TikTok to voice her opinions.

She has been notably active during the election period, while simultaneously working towards establishing her life in Ireland.

"I am trying to find a home here in this beautiful country, and when it is safe for all citizens to have equal rights there in America, that's when we will consider coming back," she explained, articulating her long-term hopes.

Nevertheless, the emotional toll of leaving her ties in the United States is clear. O'Donnell, a mother of five grown children, openly shared, "I miss my other kids. I miss my friends. I miss many things about life there at home." Her commentary intertwines the personal with the political, a perspective she believes many share.

Lamenting America's Political Climate

Reflecting on the current U.S. political landscape, O’Donnell describes the situation as both heartbreaking and challenging.

"It's heartbreaking to see what's happening politically, and hard for me personally as well. The personal is political, as we all know," she commented, expressing how deeply intertwined these aspects of her life remain.

The move, she says, while difficult, was a decision made after careful consideration of her family's needs amid uncertain times. "I just felt like we needed to take care of ourselves and make some hard decisions," she admitted, reiterating the thorough deliberation involved in her relocation. As she settles into Irish life, O'Donnell remains hopeful for political change in her home country.

Potential for Future Return to U.S.

O'Donnell urges others to prioritize their mental health, given the ongoing political upheaval. "Protect your sanity as much as you can and try not to swim in the chaos if possible," she advised, acknowledging, however, the difficulty of doing so when immersed in the situation. Her encouragement highlights a desire for Americans to weather what she perceives as a storm.

Expressing hope for America's future, she remarked, "I am hoping that we can turn things around. I'm counting on you, all of you, to do what's right."

Through these words, she extends a call to action for Americans to continue striving for what she says is justice and equality, indicating her belief in collective responsibility.

In summary, O'Donnell's move to Ireland is both a retreat and a pointed public statement. By finding refuge abroad, she underscores her dissatisfaction with the current American political climate, while reinforcing what she says is her enduring advocacy for equal rights. Trump, for his part, is perhaps rather happy to see her go.