Comedian Rosie O'Donnell has ignited a firestorm of controversy after making explosive claims linking the Minnesota school shooter to Donald Trump's MAGA movement, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary.
Inaccurate Allegations Spark Fury
O'Donnell took to social media platform X to directly address the former president, writing: "@realDonaldTrump - another one of your maga boys - killed 1 - injured 5 - in minnesota - middle school shooter - when will it stop?"
The tweet immediately drew widespread condemnation as facts about the shooter emerged. The perpetrator, identified as 15-year-old Dylan Robinson, was actually a transgender individual who had expressed left-leaning political views on social media.
Shooter's Background Contradicts Narrative
Robinson's online presence revealed profiles expressing left-wing ideologies and transgender identity, directly contradicting O'Donnell's attempt to link the tragedy to conservative politics. The teenager reportedly used pronouns they/them and had previously discussed mental health struggles online.
The shooting occurred at Richfield Secondary School in Minnesota, leaving one student dead and five others injured before the shooter took their own life.
Social Media Backlash Intensifies
Users across social media platforms quickly fact-checked O'Donnell's claims, with many accusing her of exploiting a tragedy to push political agendas. Critics highlighted the insensitivity of making such allegations while families were grieving.
One user responded: "The Minnesota school shooter was a transgender leftist. But don't let facts get in the way of your narrative." Another added: "This is dangerously irresponsible even for you, Rosie."
Pattern of Controversial Statements
This incident isn't the first time O'Donnell has faced criticism for controversial political statements. The comedian has been an outspoken critic of Donald Trump for years, but this latest allegation has been widely condemned as particularly reckless.
Mental health experts have also weighed in, suggesting that politicising such tragedies can hinder meaningful discussions about school safety and mental health support systems.
As investigations continue into the Minnesota school shooting, the focus remains on supporting victims and understanding the complex factors that lead to such tragedies, rather than exploiting them for political point-scoring.
