Mike Rowe, the host of “Dirty Jobs,” criticized late-night comedian Jimmy Kimmel for what he deemed a “tone-deaf” joke about the new Homeland Security Secretary, Mark Wayne Mullin, who has a background as a plumber. Rowe admitted that Kimmel “hurt his butt a little” with his comments.
He expressed offense at the implication that skilled labor shouldn’t evolve, questioning if Mullin’s journey—from plumbing business owner to Congress to a cabinet role—wasn’t a reflection of the American dream.
Rowe noted, “Being offended is a choice, and I don’t usually take offense at jokes, even if they target skilled workers whom my foundation aims to uplift. But the idea that skilled labor shouldn’t lead to new opportunities is a bit troubling.” He compared the need for specialized skills, pointing out that if he needed surgery, he’d prefer a doctor, not a talk show host, and wondered why a former talk show host couldn’t transition to being a skilled doctor.
Kimmel, known for critiquing the Trump administration, faced backlash for implying Mullin’s plumbing background made him unqualified for his new role. He humorously referenced Mullin’s past, chuckling that “we now have plumbers to protect us from terrorism,” referring to a fictional context. He then jokingly suggested that if unqualified people are to be appointed, perhaps Lil Wayne should run the department for some fun.
Later, Kimmel clarified that he wasn’t upset about Mullin being a plumber, but rather about his current position, stating, “We wouldn’t call a five-star general to fix a toilet… Everyone has their expertise.”
Many commentators on social media considered Kimmel’s remarks elitist, accusing him of belittling working-class jobs. Rowe, who runs mikeroweWORKS—a nonprofit focusing on skilled trade jobs—was particularly incensed. He emphasized that the shortage of skilled labor is crucial and should be seen as a national security issue.
Rowe argued that the skills gap is widening and that the country needs knowledgeable individuals in various trades. “We need welders who can discuss philosophy and philosophers who can handle practical jobs,” he noted, advocating for a merging of skills across professions.
Illustrating Mullin’s journey, Rowe elaborated on how he built a successful plumbing company, which allowed him to serve in Congress and now as Secretary. “Isn’t that what the American dream is all about?” Rowe questioned.
He acknowledged Kimmel might criticize Mullin’s politics but challenged anyone to argue against his successful career path. Concluding, Rowe humorously remarked, “I’d love to talk more, but I have to deal with some rats in the bathroom.”
