Late-night television host Jimmy Kimmel has stirred up a fresh wave of political debate after cracking a joke about former US President Donald Trump's citizenship status during his show.
The comedian, known for his sharp political commentary, made the quip while discussing Trump's recent public appearances. Kimmel's remark quickly went viral, drawing both laughter and criticism from viewers across the political spectrum.
Backlash from Trump Supporters
Conservative audiences and Trump loyalists were quick to condemn Kimmel's joke, calling it disrespectful and misleading. Some accused the ABC host of spreading misinformation about the former president's eligibility to hold office.
Political analysts suggest this incident highlights the ongoing cultural divide in America, where late-night comedy has become an increasingly partisan battleground.
Defenders Cite Free Speech
Meanwhile, free speech advocates and Kimmel's supporters argue that the joke falls well within the bounds of political satire, a long-standing tradition in American comedy. They point to similar jokes made about Democratic politicians as evidence of equal-opportunity mockery.
The controversy comes at a sensitive time in US politics, with Trump actively campaigning for another presidential run while facing multiple legal challenges.
Impact on Late-Night TV Landscape
This incident raises questions about the role of comedy in political discourse and whether late-night hosts should maintain stricter neutrality. Industry observers note that Kimmel's show has become increasingly political in recent years, mirroring a broader trend across the genre.
As the clip continues to circulate online, the debate shows no signs of abating, with social media users passionately arguing both sides of the issue.
