Overview
- Maher told ABC’s This Week that his vote is "in play" and that he could see himself voting for Vice President J.D. Vance, comments first aired Sunday, July 19, 2026.
- He accused Democrats of being "cowardly" and repeatedly criticized the Democratic Socialists of America and progressive calls he described as endorsing abolition of police and public ownership of industries.
- Maher pointed to his June 26 Real Time interview with Vance as an example of cross-ideological engagement, saying conversations with opponents can change impressions and that the show was "a good time."
- He said he expects Democrats to do well in the 2026 midterms as a referendum on President Trump but warned that a more energized left could make 2028 a different contest if Trump is not on the ballot.
- Coverage of the remarks varies by outlet, but analysts note Maher’s reach matters mainly for elite and media narratives about party direction rather than as evidence of a broad voter realignment.