Los Angeles, Calif. — A recent television segment featuring Bill Maher’s pointed questioning of California Gov. Gavin Newsom has prompted a vehement response from former President Donald Trump. In a series of posts on Truth Social, Trump criticized Fox News for allowing Maher a platform, suggesting that the network should no longer feature the comedian who has frequently clashed with conservative values.
The tension escalated shortly after “The Big Weekend Show” aired on May 2, where Fox hosts commended Maher for his tough interview with Newsom on HBO’s “Real Time.” In his outburst, the former president expressed outrage that Fox would give a platform to someone he believes does not represent conservative interests. He lashed out, calling Maher a “MORON” and decrying the praise given to him by the network.
During the segment that triggered Trump’s ire, Maher confronted Newsom about the escalating economic challenges facing California, including soaring gas prices and high rent. He urged Newsom to abandon a controversial high-speed rail project that has faced multiple setbacks and ballooning costs, highlighting the disconnect between the state’s ambitious plans and its current struggles. Fox hosts echoed Maher’s critique, labeling the project a “boondoggle.”
Trump has a history of disdain for Maher, who recently received the Kennedy Center Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. The former president recounted a meeting with Maher at the White House in early 2025, which he described as uncomfortable. He painted the comedian as anxious and unprepared, further emphasizing his view of Maher as a poor representative for any political discourse aligned with his beliefs.
In the interview, Newsom defended his actions, asserting that he was mirroring Trump’s approach to online engagement and lawsuits. He took aim at Trump for a perceived lack of unifying leadership, criticizing the divisive atmosphere in contemporary politics. However, Maher countered by pushing Newsom to take accountability for California’s problems, questioning whether the governor believed people were satisfied with economic conditions under his administration.
As Trump continued to voice his frustrations, he labeled Newsom “Newscum” and laid out what he sees as the governor’s failure to effectively address key issues in the state. He criticized the administration’s handling of homelessness and wildfires, claiming that population loss in California is unprecedented.
What began as a conversation on a prominent cable news forum quickly devolved into a public feud between Trump and Maher, showcasing the complicated relationship between political figures and media personalities in today’s polarized environment. The incident serves as a reminder of how easily discussions can ignite into larger political battles, particularly when prominent voices challenge established narratives.