Rosie O'Donnell has offered a new explanation for her long-running feud with US President Donald Trump, suggesting his hostility towards her stems partly from their shared New York roots. In an interview with Variety, the actress and comedian, who relocated to Ireland after Trump's 2024 election win, argued that being from the same area as Trump sets her apart from other comedians who have criticised him, prompting a strong reaction from him.

O'Donnell noted that the pair have clashed for around 20 years and said people occasionally remark that she and Trump sound alike, something she called "probably the worst thing" anyone could tell her. She also referenced a broader "PTSD response" she believes Trump has to her specifically, framing it as rooted in their common New York upbringing rather than typical celebrity criticism. The remarks come amid renewed attention on her outspoken opposition to Trump and follow her decision to relocate abroad after his re-election.