Bill Maher, the host of HBO’s ‘Real Time,’ addressed Democrats during his latest show regarding their reluctance to celebrate America’s upcoming 250th anniversary due to their dissatisfaction with President Donald Trump. Maher emphasized the importance of not being petty.
He referred to the Democratic National Convention of 2024, which prominently displayed American flags and conveyed the idea that patriotism should not be treated as an embarrassment. With the country preparing for its annual Fourth of July festivities, Trump has promised a grand celebration for America’s 250th anniversary. Numerous Democrats, however, have expressed their unwillingness to participate, citing their dissatisfaction with Trump.
Bill Maher expressed disapproval, stating, “I’m not saying Trump doesn’t want to muddy the distinction between himself and the country; he definitely does.” He continued, “That’s what wannabe authoritarians do. They try to blur the line. Don’t be an accomplice.” Maher criticized the notion that the nation shouldn’t be honored merely because of the current president’s unpopularity among some groups.
Concerns have arisen within the left regarding Trump’s potential to redirect the anniversary’s focus on himself. Maher acknowledged this likelihood, urging Democrats to prioritize the country during the upcoming celebration.
Maher commented, “He isn’t America. He’s a temporary caretaker of America — America’s employee.” A Reuters/Ipsos survey conducted from June 12 to June 15, involving 1,537 adults in the U.S., revealed that 64% of Republicans planned to display an American flag or flag bunting outside their homes on July 4, compared to only 27% of Democrats.
The findings prompted Maher to encourage Democrats to enjoy the holiday and overlook their grievances with the president. “Go to the party. It’s a big celebration,” Maher advised, emphasizing the country’s vastness and the improbability of encountering Trump personally.
Despite Trump’s controversies, Maher pointed out, America remains prosperous by global standards, still a destination for people, and sufficiently free for him to challenge the president’s rhetoric.
Maher concluded with a rallying call for Democrats not to forsake their patriotism due to dissatisfaction with the highest office. He argued that ignoring one’s patriotism contradicts the First Amendment and America’s core values.
Maher further stated, “The message that most threatens authoritarians isn’t ‘America sucks.’ It’s ‘America is ours too.'”
As the nation anticipates America’s 250th anniversary celebrations, Maher implores Democrats to put aside partisan differences and unite during this significant event, encouraging them not to let the holiday become yet another reason for political sulking.
Fox News Digital’s Kristine Parks contributed to this report. Julia Bonavita is a media and culture writer for Fox News Digital.