Bill Maher Confronts Donald Trump on Successes and Failures: “I Have Every Right to Say So in a Democracy”

Nearly three weeks after Donald Trump criticized Bill Maher on Valentine’s Day, claiming their dinner last year was a waste of time, Maher responded with a detailed rebuttal. During his “New Rules” segment, Maher clarified his stance on Trump, asserting that he has both criticized and praised the former president.

Maher Responds to Trump’s Claims

In his segment, Maher addressed Trump’s comments made on Truth Social, stating he does not suffer from what Trump termed “Trump Derangement Syndrome.” Instead, Maher suggested that Trump exhibits “Bill Maher Derangement Syndrome.” He began by correcting inaccuracies from Trump’s post about their dinner, emphasizing that he did not initiate the meeting; it was arranged by their mutual friend, Kid Rock. Maher noted that he enjoyed the dinner, stating, “I was having a good time.”

Maher recounted that Trump had expressed feelings of hurt over not receiving enough recognition for his accomplishments. He acknowledged this sentiment, saying, “I understand that feeling.”

The Dinner and Subsequent Texts

Following their dinner, Trump texted Maher, complaining that Maher was still part of the “lunatic left” and insisted he deserved a Nobel Prize for his efforts in ending wars. Maher humorously replied, “Yeah, and I should have won 20 Emmys.”

Maher reflected on their conversation, stating that Trump had ended their exchange by saying, “Bill, you know what? Don’t change. I wouldn’t know what to do with you if you did.” Maher expressed that he would not consider the dinner a waste of time as long as there was a possibility of engaging with the more genuine side of Trump.

Acknowledging Trump’s Achievements

Maher proceeded to highlight areas where he believed Trump deserved credit. He stated, “Despite all the hate I got from my side, I never threw [Trump] under the bus.” He recognized Trump’s efforts regarding border security and the removal of criminals, asserting that these issues were pivotal to Trump’s electoral success.

He also mentioned his support for Trump’s military actions, including the bombing of a nuclear facility in Iran and the operation to remove Nicolás Maduro from power in Venezuela. Maher acknowledged several initiatives that he supported, including those related to animal rights and NATO funding.

Criticism of Trump’s Policies

Despite acknowledging some of Trump’s successes, Maher did not shy away from criticizing the former president’s policies. He expressed concern over the current state of ICE, stating that while he supported the removal of dangerous criminals, he opposed the accompanying “sadism and stupidity.”

Maher described Elon Musk’s DOGE as a “complete disaster,” and criticized Trump’s stance on coal and his relationships with autocrats. He condemned the criminalization of dissent and the tendency to silence critics through legal means.

The Dinner’s Aftermath and Public Reaction

In his initial Truth Social post, Trump described Maher as nervous and lacking confidence during their dinner. He recounted that Maher had asked for a “Vodka Tonic” to calm his nerves. Trump characterized their meeting as pleasant, but later expressed disappointment that Maher continued to criticize him.

Maher addressed Trump’s comments on his show, stating that he never claimed their dinner was a waste of time. He compared the situation to a date where one party expects something in return for a meal, asserting, “I’m not that guy.”

Reflections on the Meeting

During the dinner, Maher found Trump to be “gracious and measured,” contrasting this with the persona he often portrays publicly. He remarked that the individual he met was different from the one who had tweeted negatively about him the night before.

Maher’s decision to dine with Trump drew backlash from some circles, including a satirical essay by Larry David, which mocked Maher’s visit to the White House. Maher later indicated that his friendship with David had suffered as a result of this incident.

As reported by www.hollywoodreporter.com.

Explore the latest digital editions of FAME Delivered in the Magazine section.

Published on 2026-03-07 09:13:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk