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Bill Maher Defends Trump Dinner, Calls Viewers 'Idiots'

2/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Comedian Bill Maher criticized viewers who stopped watching his show after he dined with U.S. President Donald Trump, calling them "idiots."
In a Cable News Network (CNN) interview, he defended the dinner, saying it allowed for a more nuanced conversation.
He said he will continue to criticize Trump and the left when necessary.
He expressed disappointment in viewers' emotional reactions and emphasized the importance of dialogue, questioning the alternative to communicating with the president.
He acknowledged Trump's flaws but argued that avoiding conversation is not a viable option.

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Story summary

Comedian Bill Maher criticized viewers who stopped watching his show after he dined with U.S. President Donald Trump, calling them "idiots."
In a Cable News Network (CNN) interview, he defended the dinner, saying it allowed for a more nuanced conversation.
He said he will continue to criticize Trump and the left when necessary.
He expressed disappointment in viewers' emotional reactions and emphasized the importance of dialogue, questioning the alternative to communicating with the president.
He acknowledged Trump's flaws but argued that avoiding conversation is not a viable option.