Bill Maher gives props to JK on Larry King Live

[Island Blue]

At the very end of his appearance tonight, Larry asked Bill a question about "the war on terrorism" and he said (paraphrasing badly here) "John Kerry was exactly right in '04. Fighting the war on terrorism is a law enforcement issue." Did anyone else catch the show?

[wisteria]

1. I was watching.

He did say several nice things about Kerry, but when King asked him about a choice in 08, he lumped Kerry in with Hillary and Gore as not having enough of that fighting spirit and when King mentioned Biden, he went along with the choice. I do forgive him for this though, because of his other comments and because I got the feeling he didn't want to commit to any person at this point in time. It may also of been that being so positive about Kerry might have watered down his points about the handling of this war and the threat of terrorism.

[ginnyinWI]

2. I thought that opening shot was mean-spirited.

I know I'm sensitive on the subject, but it wasn't only a slam at Kerry, it was a slam at all Democrats. And it isn't the first time I've heard that kind of stuff from Maher. During the election it was sort of like Democrats were the least objectionable alternative according to him. I don't trust that kind of thinking.

Anyway, that's all I heard because I shut it off. So maybe he was better later on. But I don't need to hear any more once I've heard about "certain" politicians who kept their gonads locked up in Al Gore's lock-box during their campaigns. Maybe I'm just not in the mood tonight--it seems so much is at stake, and the Democrats are our one shining hope for America's future.

[wisteria]

3. He is typical of those who are considered progressive, but feel they have

to appear to be above all the politics. he has said many unkind things about Kerry in the past, that he give him credit on a couple of things now is interesting. I like to think Kerry has gained some respect in some circles. He did mention he has become very disappointed in McCain when in the past he praised him.
All in all though, I usually write off what he says, I think he plays on what seems intelligent and currently popular.

[ginnyinWI]

6. yes--this type feels superior

Like the people at DU who are so ideologically "pure" that nobody is good enough, especially Dems with practical solutions that might of necessity include some compromises.

I saw most of the repeat last night, to better judge the show. (I don't get HBO so am not a viewer of his regular program.) You know how sometimes people see good or bad characteristics in others that they themselves possess? Well, Bill said that Joe Lieberman was being selfish, and I thought, "bingo!".

[wisteria]

7. That was one of the comments that really stuck with me.

Lieberman is being selfish. It has always been about Lieberman first, other things second.

[JI7]

4. Bill Maher is one of those "too cool to be a Democrat" types

i heard this on DU before from someone. people like Bill Maher who overall seem to have a liberal position but tend to attack Democrats in order to "look cool" to the Naderites and others who hate Democrats.

i don't view Bill Maher as a Democrat or liberal in the first place so i don't really get disappointed in what he says. he was one of those in 2000 who regularly used the term "Gush" and pushed the no difference crap.

i think Kerry should go on his show and defend himself from some of the shit Maher does and not try to kiss Maher's ass or make him happy. it would be more to get out his side to Maher's audience.

the "kerry was right, but ........" is what hpeople like Maher, Moore and some others often do.

i don't get too disappointed in Maher since he doesn't present himself as a Democrat or liberal.

[karynnj]

5. On many things, I think Maher is more a libertarian

so on social issues - which is most of what he speaks of - he sounds like a liberal. He was also against the war.

[whometense]

8. I agree -

he certainly is not a regulation "liberal."

And he party-bashes regularly. What Ginny said seems true to me about Maher - he sees himself as apart from - and superior to - the system. He also is friends with Ann Coulter, which tells you something.

I decided to watch last night because of the comments here. Here's what I think:

1. Hitchens is a schmuck.

2. Maher isn't funny. His standup at the start of the show makes me absolutely cringe. He's not a very good interviewer, either. What's weird, though, is that the times I've seen him on Larry King I thought he was excellent. He's smart, and can be witty - but I think he's better as a commentator than a comic.

3. Even though he's better as a commentator than a comic, he still will upend a serious discussion in order to insert a stupid joke - which I find very annoying.

4. I don't know if Kerry should go on his show or not. In the end, it's not very serious. I could see Kerry doing one of those video interviews, but not being in studio.

[TayTay]

9. Maher's ego is just to big to fit anyone in around it.

I don't think he's all that funny either. Hitchens is such a jerk.