Bill Maher Credits Trump's Tough Stance for Crime Reduction
Comedian suggests former president's 'kick-a--' approach may have contributed to a nationwide drop in violent offenses.
Comedian Bill Maher has credited former President Donald Trump's assertive approach to crime with potentially contributing to a national decline in violent offenses. On his HBO program "Real Time," Maher suggested that Trump's "tough-guy persona" and "kick-a-- and take names" rhetoric may have sent a message to potential offenders.
"It's not just drug crime that's way down, it's all crime," Maher stated, also noting the role of increased surveillance technology like Flock cameras. He described Trump as a "bad a--" and contended that it is "childish to pretend" his crime policies have not had an impact.
Maher also acknowledged that Democratic policies, such as expanding the social safety net, might have played a role by reducing desperation among the population. However, he reiterated that Trump's distinct style of leadership appeared to resonate with the goal of crime reduction. "He has UFC fights on the lawn," Maher quipped. "I think the bad guys got the message."
Official statistics from the FBI's Crime Data Explorer indicate a 9% decrease in reported violent crime nationwide between June 2025 and May 2026. Robbery saw the most significant drop at 19.4%, followed by murder at 18.7%, rape at 10%, and aggravated assault at 6.2%.
Jason Pack, a retired FBI Supervisory Special Agent, echoed the sentiment that bipartisan agreement on crime reduction is possible. He noted that individuals may disagree on broader political agendas but can find common ground in addressing violent crime and enhancing neighborhood safety. "You don’t have to wear somebody’s campaign button to admit when something appears to be working," Pack told Fox News Digital. "That’s probably why you’re hearing even some of the president’s critics acknowledge what they’re seeing on crime."
Pack emphasized the importance of collaboration between local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to effectively combat crime. He added, "People can and do disagree about politics. That’s nothing new. But most folks want the same things when they get home at the end of the day." He concluded that the desire for security and the removal of violent offenders from streets transcends political divides, framing it as a "red, white and blue" issue.
A White House spokesperson also commented on the crime statistics, stating, "President Trump promised to make America safe again and the data proves he has done just that. He has delivered the largest decrease in violent crime in American history." The spokesperson contrasted this with "Defund-the-Police Democrats" and affirmed Trump's commitment to supporting law enforcement and ensuring safer communities.