Rosie O'Donnell Questions Legitimacy of Trump's Election Victory in First Irish TV Appearance

In a striking return to the public eye, Rosie O’Donnell made headlines during her first appearance on Irish television since relocating to Ireland.

The actress and former talk show host appeared on the “Late Late Show” with host Patrick Kielty, where she expressed her doubts about the legitimacy of Donald Trump’s election victory in 2024.

This appearance marks a significant moment for O’Donnell, who has been a vocal critic of Trump for years and moved out of the United States following his re-election.

Trump reacts to Rosie O'Donnell moving to Ireland after his election victory

During the show, O’Donnell raised critical questions regarding the circumstances surrounding Trump’s electoral success.

She highlighted the unprecedented nature of Trump winning every swing state, a feat she found troubling, especially in light of the considerable financial support he received from tech mogul Elon Musk.

O’Donnell pointed out that Musk had donated a staggering $288 million to Trump’s campaign, suggesting that this financial backing played a pivotal role in the election outcome.

O’Donnell stated, “I question why for the first time in American history a president has won every swing state and is also best friends with his largest donor, who owns and runs the internet.

” She emphasized the need for an investigation into the election results, expressing her hope that the legitimacy of Trump’s victory would be thoroughly examined.

Elon Musk’s involvement in politics has often been scrutinized, and O’Donnell’s comments added fuel to the fire.

Musk, who has been appointed to a prominent position within Trump’s administration, has been accused of using his influence to sway political outcomes.

O’Donnell’s assertion that Musk may have contributed to Trump’s win, either financially or through his technological reach, raises important questions about the intersection of wealth, power, and democracy.

I told the truth about him. He has it out for me and has for 20 years' – Rosie O'Donnell talks President Trump on RTÉ's Late Late Show | Irish Independent

O’Donnell’s concerns are not unfounded; the role of social media and tech giants in shaping public opinion and influencing elections has been a hot topic in recent years.

With Musk’s ownership of X (formerly Twitter), his platform holds significant sway over the information landscape, making O’Donnell’s comments even more relevant.

Throughout her appearance, O’Donnell did not shy away from criticizing Trump on multiple fronts.

One of her focal points was Trump’s friendship with individuals accused of sexual misconduct, specifically mentioning Conor McGregor, the UFC fighter who visited the White House despite facing serious allegations.

O’Donnell remarked, “It’s strange to me that the President of the United States has so many friends who are sexual abusers,” highlighting the troubling implications of such associations.

Her comments reflect a broader concern about the values espoused by Trump’s administration.

O’Donnell lamented the apparent normalization of cruelty and lack of empathy in American politics, stating, “To think that cruelty and lack of empathy is a value sprouted from the highest office in our country is overwhelmingly sad to me personally.

”

O’Donnell also shared her personal experiences with Trump, revealing that he has used her as a punchline for years.

She recounted a recent incident where Trump mentioned her during a meeting with Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin, dismissing her as someone whose presence would lower happiness levels.

Rosie O'Donnell moves to Ireland following Trump election
O’Donnell expressed her discomfort at being used in such a manner, stating, “He’s been doing it for two decades, and I’m still not used to it every time he does.

”

In response to the incident, O’Donnell sent a note of apology to Prime Minister Martin, explaining the background of her relationship with Trump.

She received a gracious acknowledgment in return, demonstrating her desire to maintain respect for political leaders, even amidst her criticisms.

O’Donnell’s move to Ireland in January 2025 was a significant step for her, driven by her disillusionment with the political climate in the United States.

She has ancestral ties to Ireland, which has made her transition smoother.

O’Donnell expressed her contentment with her new life, stating, “It’s really felt like home since I’ve been here.

”

She is currently in the process of obtaining Irish citizenship and has no immediate plans to return to the U.S.

O’Donnell made it clear that her return would depend on the restoration of equal rights for all citizens in America, saying, “When it is safe for all citizens to have equal rights there in America, that’s when we will consider coming back.”

Rosie O'Donnell has moved to Ireland following Donald Trump's re-election

Rosie O’Donnell’s first appearance on Irish television was not just a personal milestone but a bold statement on the current political landscape.

Her questions about the legitimacy of Trump’s election victory and her criticisms of his administration resonate with many who share her concerns.

As she continues to navigate her new life in Ireland, O’Donnell remains a significant voice in the ongoing conversation about democracy, power, and the values that shape our society.

Her journey reflects a broader discontent with the state of American politics and a yearning for a more equitable future.