“Real Time” host Bill Maher criticized former President Donald Trump's reception of Chinese leader Xi Jinping, suggesting Trump's efforts to impress Xi with White House renovations were misplaced.
During a segment on his show, Maher remarked on Trump's extensive tour of the White House for Xi, including upgrades to the driveway, helipad, and ballroom. "Trump thinks that Xi could give a fuck about being his friend,” Maher said. “So, it’s all personal. Trump did everything he could to show him around. He showed him the new spot where the limo drops people off. That’s been improved. Really, I’m not making this up.”
Maher compared Trump's actions to a trivial gesture given China's rapid development. “Showed him the new helipad. The ballroom. Does he know that China builds, like, entire cities in a week? And he’s showing him the new driveway? It’s like showing [celebrity chef] Gordon Ramsay how to reheat pizza,” he quipped.
Trump hosted Xi for a state visit that included a red carpet welcome at Joint Base Andrews, a state dinner attended by their wives and tech executives, and a tour of the White House, including areas under construction like the helipad and ballroom. Maher also commented on Trump's focus on White House redecorating, characterizing his administration as "the most macho and the gayest, ever."
Maher, who has had a complex history with Trump, including past private dinners and even support for his stance on Iran before urging a withdrawal, concluded his remarks with a seemingly affectionate "I kid, it’s always with love, everybody.”