Ep 34. November 8, 2019

On November 8, 2019, the 17th season of Real Time with Bill Maher aired its 34th episode. As a politically charged talk show, each episode of Real Time with Bill Maher serves as a platform to discuss the hottest topics in news and politics. The November 8th episode did not stray from this formula, as Maher and his guests delved into current events and debates that are shaping the political landscape of today.

The guests for the episode included Rep. Joe Walsh, a former Republican congressman from Illinois, journalist Leah Remini, who serves as a critic of Scientology, and former CEO and editor-in-chief of The Daily Beast, Tina Brown. The diverse group provided a well-rounded perspective on the issues at hand, contributing a plethora of opinions and insights on a range of topics.

The episode began with Maher opening up about his thoughts on the current state of politics, particularly his disappointment in the Democratic Party. He questioned why they appear to be playing it safe and not being more confrontational with President Trump. Maher also expressed his admiration for Rep. Walsh, who was once a staunch supporter of the president but has since become a vocal critic of the administration. The conversation then shifted to the impeachment inquiry into President Trump and the possibility of him being removed from office.

The panel then examined the political beliefs of younger generations, including millennials and Generation Z. They took the time to discuss the recent history of activism, from the civil rights movement to the present day. The conversation moved to the 2020 election and the possibility of a progressive Democrat taking on Trump. They also discussed the role of big corporations in elections and how money can corrupt the democratic process.

One of the most heated discussions of the episode was on the topic of religion. Leah Remini, who has publicly criticized the Church of Scientology, discussed her views on the dangers of having a cult-like mentality and the harm it can do to individuals who are caught up in it. She also talked about how this type of groupthink is permeated throughout society, whether it be in religion or other forms of social gatherings. The panelists debated the merits and dangers of religion, discussing its place in modern society and whether it is a force for good or evil.

Tina Brown spoke about the media's role in politics and how they report the news. She talked about the growing trend of sensationalism and the role that social media plays in the dissemination of information. The panelists debated whether social media is a force for good or evil, with some arguing that it spreads fake news and others arguing that it has revolutionized how we communicate and connect with one another.

Throughout the episode, Maher and his guests also discussed issues such as income inequality, immigration, and the growing threat of white nationalism. They provided a wide range of perspectives, with each guest bringing their unique experiences and opinions to the table.

Overall, the November 8, 2019 episode of Real Time with Bill Maher was a thought-provoking and engaging discussion on some of the most pressing issues facing society today. It was an example of how political talk shows can provide a platform for intelligent and civil discourse on topics that often elicit passionate debate.