Actor’s Sharp Criticism Sparks Presidential Fury
Tensions escalated following the State of the Union address as President Donald Trump lashed out at several of his critics, including Oscar-winning actor Robert De Niro.
De Niro, a long-time opponent of Trump, had appeared on MS NOW ahead of the speech, warning that the president “will never leave” office voluntarily and urging Americans to “make him leave.” He also spoke at a counter-event titled State of the Swamp at the National Press Club, where he said he felt “betrayed” by the direction of the country and accused current leadership of abandoning core democratic values.
Deportation Remarks and Personal Insults
In a series of posts on his Truth Social platform, Trump reacted angrily, suggesting that De Niro — along with Democratic Representatives Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib — should be deported. All three are American citizens. The president described De Niro in harsh terms, accusing him of erratic behavior and even suggesting some of his remarks were “criminal,” though he offered no evidence.
Trump also revived his long-running feud with comedian Rosie O’Donnell, referencing past threats to revoke her citizenship despite longstanding legal precedent barring such action.
Polls Reflect Public Concerns
The heated exchange comes amid mixed public opinion about the president’s leadership. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll found that 61% of Americans believe Trump has become more erratic with age, including large majorities of Democrats and independents, along with a notable share of Republicans. Another survey conducted by The Washington Post, ABC News, and Ipsos reported that 39% of Americans approve of the way Trump is handling his job.
While the White House dismissed such polling as politically motivated, broader concerns about the age and direction of US political leadership remain. The average age of senators currently stands at 64, with members of the House averaging 58 — figures that continue to fuel debate about generational change in Washington.
