Overview

• Bill Maher attended a White House dinner with Donald Trump on March 31, arranged by Kid Rock, and described the president's private demeanor as 'gracious and measured.'
• Critics, including Washington Post columnist Josh Rogin, argue the meeting served as a PR opportunity for Trump, using Maher as a 'prop' to soften his public image.
• Maher has defended his decision to attend, stating he engaged in good faith and felt no pressure to align with Trump's political stance.
• The controversy highlights broader debates about the risks of humanizing public figures with contentious records during private interactions.
• Prominent figures such as Keith Olbermann and others have criticized Maher, accusing him of undermining accountability by portraying Trump in a favorable light.