By Fatma Younis
Bill Maher used his Friday night monologue on "Real Time with Bill Maher" to deliver a pointed response to Donald Trump's 1,300-word Truth Social post, escalating a feud that began after a White House dinner earlier this month.
Maher's Monologue Addresses Trump's Rant
The HBO host opened his show by referencing the length of Trump's social media attack, calling it a "flex." Maher joked that dining at the White House is the opposite of the Cheesecake Factory because "after you leave, they review you," echoing a recent remark by former President Barack Obama.
Taylor Swift Comparison
Maher likened eating with Trump to dating Taylor Swift: "It's a lot of laughs at the time, but later on, they're tearing you a new a**hole." The Independent has reached out to the White House and Swift's representative for comment.
Maher Refutes Specific Claims
Reading from a printout of Trump's post, Maher conceded the opening insult — "complete and total loser" — but disputed several allegations. He denied ever calling Trump, saying "You call me! I'd be afraid to call you — you're the president." Maher also rejected claims that he invited himself to the White House and that he had a bruised eye and nose, showing photos from the day of the dinner without visible injuries.
Background of the Feud
The tension traces back to an October 15 dinner at the White House attended by Maher, Trump, musician Kid Rock, and ESPN host Stephen A. Smith. On October 23, Maher hosted former White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt and criticized Trump's approval ratings and comments about Senator Jon Husted. Trump's subsequent Truth Social rant accused Maher of desperation to return to the White House and claimed the comedian "went crazy" after the second dinner.
