Bill Maher praises Trump’s political skills after dinner
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Bill Maher, a longtime critic of Donald Trump, recently acknowledged the former president’s political acumen, describing him as “one of the most effective politicians” following their dinner at the White House.
The admission came during Maher’s “Club Random” podcast conversation with NewsNation’s Chris Cuomo, where the 69-year-old comedian praised Trump’s authentic approach to politics.
“Trump really … is one of the most effective politicians … whatever you think of the policy and him as a person,” Maher stated. “Just as a politician just understanding that [you should] always lean in to being more who you are. The people are not savvy about issues but they smell a phony a mile away and that kind of s–t, nobody else does it.”
NEW: Bill Maher just conceded what most of the media still won’t say—Trump is one of the most effective politicians of our time.
And this wasn’t a throwaway line. Maher meant it.
“Trump is one of the most effective politicians,” Maher told Chris Cuomo.
“Whatever you think of… pic.twitter.com/bs0VS483na
— The Vigilant Fox 🦊 (@VigilantFox) April 6, 2025
The dinner, orchestrated by Trump supporter Kid Rock, brought together two figures who had been at odds since Trump’s entry into politics. Despite their ideological differences, Maher found himself impressed by Trump’s political instincts, particularly when compared to Democratic politicians.
During the podcast, Maher highlighted specific instances of Trump’s effective leadership style, including a confrontation with the Taliban following the Afghanistan withdrawal in 2021. He recounted Trump’s direct threat to the Taliban leader, showing aerial photos of the leader’s residence and warning of consequences if Americans were harmed during the withdrawal.
The comedian also noted Trump’s ability to connect with voters through relatable moments, such as his protective stance toward New York. According to Kid Rock, who discussed the dinner with Sean Hannity, the evening maintained a cordial atmosphere, with the participants focusing on areas of common ground.
For his White House meeting with President Trump, Bill Maher brought a list of insults Trump had said about him over the years and handed it to him.
What did Trump do?
He signed it.😂😂 pic.twitter.com/YlPazpcb8V
— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) April 1, 2025
The gathering, which also included UFC President Dana White, featured a lighthearted moment when Trump arranged for White House staff to prepare a margarita after Maher jokingly requested one.
Kid Rock, whose legal name is Robert James Ritchie, reflected on the evening’s success, noting, “We basically stuck to things that we agreed on. They both have extremely deep knowledge of American history, both very smart guys, and you know, very reasonable people, even though they’ve had this pretty harsh relationship. It was cool.”
