Trump's Valentine's Day Truth Social Outburst Targets Bill Maher
In a fiery Valentine's Day message on his Truth Social platform, President Donald Trump launched a scathing attack on television host Bill Maher, labelling him a "jerk" and an "underrated lightweight" despite the pair sharing a "great dinner" at the White House last year. The president, known for his frequent social media broadsides against late-night comedians, expressed deep frustration that Maher has continued to criticise him on his show, Real Time with Bill Maher, after their cordial meeting.
Bizarre Revelations About Oval Office Encounter
Trump provided unusual insights into their encounter, claiming Maher was "extremely nervous" and "had ZERO confidence" when they met in the Oval Office. According to the president, Maher allegedly requested a vodka tonic "within seconds" to soothe his nerves, with Trump quoting him as saying, "I've never felt like this before, I'm actually scared." Despite this, Trump initially found Maher to be "a great guy" and "very respectful" in their interactions.
Fallout Over Hockey Comments and Perceived Betrayal
The relationship soured after Maher mocked Trump's recent Truth Social post suggesting China would take over Canada and "terminate all ice hockey." On his Friday evening show, Maher read the post aloud and exclaimed, "What the f***," adding he believed such statements were damaging Trump's popularity. Trump insisted his remark was made "jokingly" and accused Maher of treating it as serious, going "on and on about the Hockey statement."
Trump wrote, "I'd much rather spend my time MAKING AMERICA GREAT AGAIN than wasting it on him," adding, "Sometimes in life you waste time!" He diagnosed Maher with "a severe case of Trump Derangement Syndrome (TDS!)," claiming "there is nothing that will ever be done to cure him of this very serious disease."
Contrasting Reviews and Ongoing Feud
Last year, Maher dined with Trump at the White House alongside Kid Rock and Dana White, afterward describing the president as "gracious" in a relatively positive review. Trump noted he had even invited Maher to the White House Christmas Party, making the perceived betrayal more acute. The president appeared angered that Maher has resumed criticism rather than acknowledging achievements like the Dow hitting 50,000 points and Trump's immigration agenda.
Despite his frustration, Trump conceded Maher was "slightly more talented" than fellow late-night hosts Jimmy Kimmel, Jimmy Fallon, or Stephen Colbert. He concluded by dismissing Maher's influence, writing, "Fortunately, his Television Ratings are so low that nobody will learn about his various Fake News statements about me."
Maher, known for political satire aimed at unifying diverse voices during polarising times, has not publicly responded to Trump's latest outburst. The Independent has reached out to Maher's representative for comment.
