Comedian Bill Maher criticized the term ‘stupid woke’ for its misplaced comparisons, during his ‘Club Random’ podcast posted Monday. His remarks were directed at Whoopi Goldberg, a co-host on ‘The View,’ who recently equated being Black in the U.S. to being a woman in Iran. Maher argued that such comparisons are rooted in outdated perspectives and suggested that viewers of the Apple series ‘Tehran’ would gain a clearer understanding of the subject. He emphasized that the analogy fails to recognize the vast differences in modern contexts, calling for a more nuanced approach to cultural and political issues.
During the podcast, Maher also addressed the broader implications of cultural narratives in politics, specifically criticizing liberal figures for their handling of sensitive topics. He took issue with the Democratic Party’s response to such discussions, suggesting that a more pragmatic approach is needed. The conversation also included a critique of Zohran Mamdani, a Democratic candidate for mayor of New York City, whom Maher argued would have limited influence in pushing progressive policies. Despite his criticisms, Maher acknowledged his earlier misjudgment of Donald Trump’s tariffs, stating that their economic impact was not as devastating as initially believed.
Maher’s discussion touched on potential Democratic candidates for the next election, including California Governor Gavin Newsom, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, and former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel. While he expressed skepticism about their ability to address key issues, he recognized their potential to shape the political landscape. The interview also highlighted the ongoing debate within the media and culture sectors, illustrating the complex interplay between public opinion and political discourse. Maher’s remarks underscore the tension between progressive ideals and practical governance, offering a critical perspective on recent developments within U.S. politics.