Bill Maher Critiques Democrats and Patriotism
In his closing monologue on Friday’s episode of HBO’s “Real Time,” Bill Maher pointed out that Democrats often seem to only embrace their patriotism around election time, particularly during conventions, to win over swing voters. The rest of the time, it appears they find it somewhat embarrassing.
Maher expressed a desire for people to feel more enthusiasm for celebrating America’s birthday. He mentioned that if Trump remains, he wouldn’t participate in the festivities. This attitude, he suggested, is misguided and somewhat dangerous. He commented, “It’s not that Trump doesn’t want to merge his identity with that of the nation; that’s a common tactic among would-be authoritarian leaders.” He emphasized the importance of keeping those distinctions clear, asserting that despite Trump’s controversies, America remains prosperous and a place where people aspire to be, with enough freedom to question the president directly. He raised his fingers in a gesture of hope, questioning whether things are as secure everywhere else. He’s indeed concerned about the rise of authoritarianism, attacks on free speech, and the politicization of justice, stemming from events since 2016. Even years later, the narrative persists: Trump tries to assert power, yet he’s being held in check.
Maher reaffirmed that while Trump may hold the presidency, it’s America’s system of checks and balances that prevents him from realizing his authoritarian ambitions. This Fourth of July, he urged a celebration of that very system, acknowledging its threats but noting its resilience, much like a ship he remembers from 1976 that still sails.
He reflected on the summer of 1976 when he proudly wore a Bicentennial T-shirt, clarifying that no one mistook it for support of Nixon. Back then, many liberals had a different view of patriotism. He recounted the story of Abbie Hoffman, a ’60s radical, who famously wore a flag shirt while appearing before the House Un-American Activities Committee. Maher noted that what truly terrifies authoritarians is not that America is flawed, but that it belongs to everyone. He concluded that in election years, Democrats should not just exhibit patriotism fleetingly at rallies aimed at regaining voters. Patriotism shouldn’t be treated as an uncomfortable subject. He recalled wearing nuthugger pants back in the day, stating that it didn’t stop them from showing passion for America, remarking, “You only get 200 once,” referencing the nation’s anniversary.
