On a recent episode of “Real Time,” Bill Maher remarked on Democrats’ quest to discover “their Joe Rogan,” pointing out the irony that many prominent podcasters seem to leave the party once they become disillusioned. He emphasized that, instead of seeking out a new figure like Rogan, maybe they should reflect on how they lost their initial support.
Maher referenced former Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, noting that he was once a popular figure among Democrats. It wasn’t until 2024 when Sanders voiced support for Donald Trump, which raised some eyebrows.
During the show, Maher suggested that the loss of figures like Rogan and Sanders might be partly attributed to the rise of right-wing podcasts. He provocatively stated, “Instead of trying to find a new Joe Rogan, maybe you should ponder why you lost him in the first place, as he was once a loyal supporter.”
Rogan himself has commented on this issue, noting, “They had me. I was with them.” Maher also drew a parallel between Rogan’s political journey and Elon Musk’s shift from liberalism to a more conservative stance. He alluded to how both figures moved away from their original parties due to perceived negative attitudes and evolving ideologies.
Looking at Musk’s experience with Democrats, Maher pointed out that Musk felt the party is drifting too far left, which, he argued, highlights a significant challenge for Democrats in retaining influential voices.
The host mentioned that Musk faced pushback during his hosting of “Saturday Night Live,” illustrating the backlash that often pushes individuals away from the party. Maher claimed that efforts to “cancel” figures like Rogan and Musk were pivotal reasons for their departure.
He concluded with the thought that the Democrats shouldn’t assume these figures simply left—rather, they need to make substantial efforts to win back not just Rogan and Musk, but potentially many others who feel similarly estranged.
