In a striking reversal, prominent podcaster Joe Rogan has publicly mocked former US President Donald Trump, just a year after endorsing him for the White House. The comedian and host likened Trump's texting habits to those of a "79-year-old kid," specifically poking fun at his use of enlarged iMessage text.
A Deteriorating Relationship
The criticism, delivered on Friday 5 December 2025, marks a significant cooling in the relationship between the two figures. Rogan, who previously hosted Trump on his immensely popular podcast and publicly backed his 2024 campaign, now describes him as an "odd guy" who is different from his public persona.
The podcaster's shift in tone is reportedly linked to disagreements over policy, with Rogan criticising Trump's hardline stance on immigration. This represents a clear fracture from their previous alliance, where Rogan's platform provided a space for Trump to air his views.
Retracting Election Fraud Claims
Perhaps more substantively, Rogan has directly walked back his previous platforming of Trump's most controversial claims. During the earlier podcast interview, Rogan allowed the former president to discuss unsubstantiated allegations of fraud in the 2020 presidential election.
Now, Rogan states he does not believe Trump's administration possesses "any evidence" to support those claims. This retraction is a significant moment, given the vast reach of Rogan's show and its influence on political discourse.
From Endorsement to Ridicule
The focus on Trump's use of the "big" iMessage text size may seem superficial, but it symbolises a broader critique of the former president's style and character. By labelling him a "79-year-old kid," Rogan paints a picture of an out-of-touch figure, a far cry from the strong leader persona Trump cultivates.
This public mocking and policy criticism indicate that the once-warm rapport has soured considerably. The episode highlights the volatile nature of political endorsements in the world of new media, where influencer support can be as fleeting as it is powerful.
