HBO host Bill Maher has doubled down on his assertion that an economic recession in the United States would be welcomed if it stopped President Trump from being reelected in 2020.
“We have survived many recessions. We can’t survive another Donald Trump term,” Maher said during a panel discussion on Friday’s episode of Real Time.
Conservative guest panelist and noted critic of Trump Tom Nichols suggested that although the economy seemed healthy, things could change because of the president’s actions with international tariffs.
“I’m not wishing for a recession,” he said.
“Well, you should wish for a recession,” Maher said, interrupting Nichols. “’Cause that will definitely get him unelected.”
“But Bill, you don’t really want a recession,” guest Anthony Scaramucci, former White House communications director for Trump, said.
“I really do,” Maher stated firmly. “We have survived many recessions. We can’t survive another Donald Trump term.” The studio audience erupted with applause at Maher’s suggestion.
Maher has been on the record in the past advocating for a recession that could stymie Trump’s reelection bid. “It would get rid of Trump,” he said suggesting the same thing on last Friday’s episode.
In that episode, panel guest and columnist Josh Barro expressed shock at Maher’s suggestion. He pointed out to the host that “people lose their jobs and their homes” during times of economic recession.
“I know,” Maher said. “It’s worth it.”
