Ep 6. February 28, 2020

On February 28, 2020, the 6th episode of Real Time with Bill Maher season 18 aired. The episode featured Maher's trademark blend of insightful political commentary, biting satire, and razor-sharp humor. Maher began the show by taking aim at President Trump, who had just given a divisive speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC).

Maher compared Trump to a dictator, citing his attacks on the press and his apparent disregard for the rule of law. Maher also criticized the Democrats for their inability to unite behind a single candidate in the presidential race, arguing that their infighting could hand Trump another victory in 2020.

The first guest on the show was Reihan Salam, a conservative commentator and author. Salam and Maher discussed a range of topics, including immigration, healthcare, and the economy. Salam argued that the American Dream is still alive, and that the country remains a land of opportunity for those who are willing to work hard. Maher pushed back against this narrative, pointing out that many Americans are struggling to make ends meet, even with a college degree and a full-time job.

The second guest on the show was Neera Tanden, president of the Center for American Progress. Tanden and Maher discussed the ongoing Democratic primary race, with Tanden expressing her belief that Joe Biden was the best candidate to take on Trump in the general election. Maher countered that Biden was a weak candidate who had failed to energize the Democratic base, and that Bernie Sanders would be a more effective candidate.

The third and final guest on the show was journalist Bari Weiss, who recently resigned from her job at The New York Times. Weiss and Maher discussed cancel culture, free speech, and the role of the media in shaping public discourse. Weiss argued that the left had become too censorious, and that people were too quick to take offense at things that were said or written. Maher agreed with this sentiment, arguing that free speech was under attack from both the left and the right.

Throughout the show, Maher also tackled a number of other controversial topics, including the coronavirus outbreak, the Harvey Weinstein verdict, and the recent death of Kobe Bryant. Maher's monologue and interviews were punctuated by several comedy segments, including a parody of Trump's CPAC speech and a fake advertisement for a coronavirus-themed board game.

Overall, Real Time with Bill Maher season 18 episode 6 was a thought-provoking and entertaining look at the state of American politics and culture in 2020. Through his wit and wisdom, Maher challenged viewers to think critically about the issues that matter most, and to consider how they could help shape a better future for themselves and their fellow citizens.