• Bill Maher told Joe Scarborough that former President Trump has done “a lot of things I hate,” and a shorter list of things he doesn’t.
  • Maher discussed the influence of Johnny Carson and the early struggles that shaped his career.
  • He addressed criticism for speaking with President Trump and defended engaging with political figures.
  • The interview aired Feb. 3, 2026, as Maher launched his 24th TV season.

H2: Bill Maher sums up his feelings on Trump

Comedian and host Bill Maher sat down with Morning Joe’s Joe Scarborough on Feb. 3, 2026, and delivered a blunt assessment of former President Donald Trump. Maher said Trump has done “a lot of things I hate,” while acknowledging there are fewer things he doesn’t hate — a pithy summary that framed much of the conversation.

Maher, who is starting his 24th season on television, used the interview to explain his stance on engaging with politicians, including talking directly with Trump. He pushed back on critics who fault him for meeting or conversing with political figures, arguing that dialogue is part of being a public commentator.

H3: On criticism for talking to Trump

During the interview, Maher said some people judge him for speaking with Trump, but he defended the choice. He emphasized the value of direct discussion over isolation, saying that meeting with leaders — even ones he strongly disagrees with — can reveal insights and spur public debate.

Short sentences, clear points. Maher repeated a familiar position for entertainers who straddle comedy and commentary: talking to powerful figures does not equal endorsement.

H3: Johnny Carson’s influence and early career struggles

Maher also reflected on the entertainers who shaped him. He singled out Johnny Carson as an important figure, explaining how Carson’s style opened paths for late-night comics. Maher recalled early career challenges that tested his resolve and pushed him to refine his voice as a commentator and comedian.

Those anecdotes tied back to his current work — staying provocative while trying to remain thoughtful — and reinforced why Maher sees conversation, even with political adversaries, as part of his role.

H2: What the interview means going forward

The exchange with Scarborough comes as Maher returns for another season, signaling he plans to remain an active voice in political and cultural debates. His comments about Trump, Carson and professional hardships underline a larger argument: public figures should engage across divides rather than retreating from contentious conversations.

H3: Watch the full interview

Watch the complete 11:33 interview on MS NOW for the full exchange and context: https://www.ms.now/morning-joe/watch/bill-maher-trump-has-done-a-lot-of-things-i-hate-and-a-shorter-list-of-things-i-don-t-hate-2485016131614

Maher’s take is likely to renew debate among fans and critics about the role of entertainers in politics, and whether talking to controversial figures helps or harms public discourse. For now, he’s clear about his view: he dislikes much of what Trump has done — and he’s willing to say so while still talking to him.

Image Referance: https://www.ms.now/morning-joe/watch/bill-maher-trump-has-done-a-lot-of-things-i-hate-and-a-shorter-list-of-things-i-don-t-hate-2485016131614