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Ellen DeGeneres has publicly backed Rosie O’Donnell following President Donald Trump‘s recent remarks threatening to revoke O’Donnell’s U.S. citizenship. This support comes just one day after Trump referred to O’Donnell as a ‘threat to humanity’ in a post on his social media platform.
After O’Donnell moved to Ireland earlier this year, Trump reacted with a social media tirade. He stated, ‘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 further emphasized, ‘She is a threat to humanity and should remain in the wonderful Country of Ireland, if they want her. GOD BLESS AMERICA!’
DeGeneres, 67, responded to this threat by reposting both Trump’s comments and O’Donnell’s reaction on her Instagram account, offering words of encouragement, ‘Good for you.’
O’Donnell’s Response to Trump
Following Trump’s attack, O’Donnell quickly defended herself on social media. Known for her role in A League of Their Own, she shared a collage of images featuring a screenshot of Trump’s post and expressed her views vehemently.
In her response, she stated, ‘The president of the USA has always hated the fact that I see him for who he is – a criminal con man, sexual abusing liar out to harm our nation to serve himself.’ O’Donnell highlighted her reasons for relocating to Ireland, describing Trump as a ‘dangerous old soulless man with dementia who lacks empathy, compassion, and basic humanity.’
O’Donnell further elaborated on her stance, saying, ‘I stand in direct opposition to all he represents—so do millions of others. Are you going to deport all who stand against your evil tendencies? You’re a bad joke who can’t form a coherent sentence.’ The comedian concluded her statement with the hashtag ‘never trump.’
The Legal Landscape of Citizenship
Despite Trump’s threats, O’Donnell’s citizenship remains secure. The 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution guarantees citizenship to anyone born in the United States. O’Donnell was born in Commack, New York, and legal experts believe the government cannot unilaterally revoke the citizenship of a natural-born citizen.
Revocation of citizenship can only occur under specific circumstances, such as treason or committing acts against the U.S. Additionally, citizenship can be renounced voluntarily. However, proving that citizenship was obtained through fraud poses a significant legal challenge.
Reasons Behind O’Donnell’s Move
O’Donnell officially confirmed her move to Ireland in March, stating that she left the U.S. shortly before Trump’s inauguration. She explained that the new environment is beneficial for her 12-year-old son, Clay. Her decision reflects a desire for stability and safety amidst a political climate she finds troubling.
Much like O’Donnell, DeGeneres has also relocated outside the United States, establishing a new life with her wife, Portia de Rossi, across the pond. This adds another layer to how prominent figures in the entertainment industry are responding to the current political landscape.
O’Donnell Reflects on Change
In an April interview, O’Donnell admitted she had not been in touch with DeGeneres but expressed surprise regarding the reasons behind DeGeneres’s relocation. ‘I’ve never really known Ellen to say anything political in her life, so I was surprised to read that she left because of President Trump. Like, that shocked me, actually,’ O’Donnell remarked.
Despite their differences, O’Donnell does not harbor any ill will towards DeGeneres. She stated, ‘I don’t want to fight against another gay woman. It’s not like we’re tenaciously opposed to each other. We’re just very different people.’
The Broader Implications for Celebrity Voices
O’Donnell’s outspoken criticism of Trump, as well as her move to Ireland, sheds light on how public figures navigate their identities and politics. She noted, ‘There’s enough room in the world for all of the gay comedians, and we all need to stick together because gay people are the next group to be threatened. The way they attack trans people is absolutely terrifying.’
The public support from DeGeneres demonstrates a growing trend where celebrities use their platforms to advocate for important social issues. Amid a complex political environment, their voices resonate with many looking for solidarity and guidance.
This incident serves as a reminder of the challenges artists and public figures might face when they stand against prevailing political narratives.
As the nation continues to grapple with issues related to citizenship, rights, and freedom of expression, the actions and words of high-profile individuals like O’Donnell and DeGeneres can inspire conversations and contribute to societal change.
Final Thoughts
The interplay between celebrity, politics, and individual rights is more significant than ever. As such public exchanges strengthen their resolve, they highlight the necessity of dialogue in a democratic society. Whether through humor, criticism, or heartfelt support, these figures remind the public of the enduring power of voice and the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs.
