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Bill Maher Defends Trump Dinner, Labels President Influenceable

7/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Maher defended his July 15 dinner with President Donald Trump on NPR’s “Newsmakers,” saying it aimed to engage the president.
He said Trump lacks fixed beliefs, is swayed by “people saying,” and can be influenced by conversation.
He called Trump highly self-aware, more normal in private, and noted a Tourette-like blurt habit.
He added that Trump later resumed hurling insults at him, confirming continued criticism.

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Story summary

Maher defended his July 15 dinner with President Donald Trump on NPR’s “Newsmakers,” saying it aimed to engage the president.
He said Trump lacks fixed beliefs, is swayed by “people saying,” and can be influenced by conversation.
He called Trump highly self-aware, more normal in private, and noted a Tourette-like blurt habit.
He added that Trump later resumed hurling insults at him, confirming continued criticism.