Story perspectives

Bill Maher Faces Backlash Over Environmental Misstatement

2/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Bill Maher criticized Interior Secretary Doug Burgum for backing the Trump administration's rollback of environmental regulations.
On his show, Maher confused carbon dioxide with carbon monoxide and claimed CO2 is a pollutant, drawing backlash online.
Critics noted Maher's condescending tone and his failure to grasp basic environmental facts.
Burgum and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin defended the regulatory changes, and Maher's comments reflect a broader critique of perceived climate moralism.

1 of 1

Story summary

Bill Maher criticized Interior Secretary Doug Burgum for backing the Trump administration's rollback of environmental regulations.
On his show, Maher confused carbon dioxide with carbon monoxide and claimed CO2 is a pollutant, drawing backlash online.
Critics noted Maher's condescending tone and his failure to grasp basic environmental facts.
Burgum and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin defended the regulatory changes, and Maher's comments reflect a broader critique of perceived climate moralism.