Bill Maher’s Take on Trump and Xi’s Meeting

In recent episodes of Real Time with Bill Maher, Bill Maher has been aiming his humor at various political figures, from Gavin Newsom to Donald Trump.

During Friday night’s show, Maher chose to focus on President Trump’s trip to China, where he met Xi Jinping in Beijing. Maher also mentioned filmmaker Brett Ratner, who is known for a documentary about Melania Trump, was reportedly on the same trip.

The two leaders discussed ways to enhance economic ties, looking at creating more opportunities for American businesses in China and promoting further Chinese investment in the U.S., according to the administration.

However, Maher interpreted the meeting quite differently.

“Trump hates China, but he loves Xi,” Maher pointed out. “It’s safe to say this was a love fest between the two. As he was leaving, [Trump] President Xi expressed deep gratitude for the hospitality. President Xi then thanked President Trump for boosting China’s global image.”

Maher argued that Trump’s enthusiasm is less about genuine diplomacy and more about extravagant receptions.

“Did you know? China understands what Trump enjoys,” Maher remarked. “What does he enjoy? He likes spectacle and ceremonies, he likes red carpets, and children waving American flags. And Xi, he’s clever, isn’t he? He played his cards right ever since Trump stepped back from the significant trade conflict.”

Then, Maher delivered his sharpest joke of the night.

“As a subtle deal, we were served orange chicken.”

But that wasn’t all.

“Trump claims he can’t measure up to Xi. It’s getting a bit odd, wouldn’t you say?” Maher joked. “At one point, Xi told the interpreter, ‘Inform President Trump not to be emotional.’

For Maher, what was framed as a significant diplomatic endeavor resembled more of an elaborate first date.

Real Time with Bill Maher airs Fridays at 10/9c on HBO.