Ep 20. Episode 217

Bill Maher gets candid about the current political climate in Episode 217 of Real Time with Bill Maher season 9. In the wake of the 2012 presidential debate, Maher invites a diverse group of guests, including Republican Congressman Darrell Issa and former Obama advisor Austan Goolsbee, to discuss the state of the nation.

The episode begins with Maher addressing recent comments by Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney about the 47 percent of Americans who rely on government assistance. While Maher chastises Romney's disdain for half the population, his guests offer up different perspectives on the controversial statement.

Congressman Issa, a staunch conservative, defends Romney's comments, arguing that they were taken out of context and that Romney was simply speaking to his base. Goolsbee, however, counters that Romney's statement reveals his lack of understanding for the struggles faced by many Americans, and that his policies would ultimately harm the middle class.

The conversation then turns to the economy, with both Issa and Goolsbee offering different visions for how to stimulate growth. Issa champions supply-side economics, arguing that low taxes and reduced regulations will incentivize businesses to create jobs. Goolsbee, on the other hand, advocates for traditional Keynesian policies, such as government spending and higher taxes on the wealthy.

As the discussion continues, additional guests are brought on to weigh in on topics ranging from the Affordable Care Act to the recent embassy attacks in the Middle East. In each case, Maher moderates the conversation with his signature wit and candor, challenging each guest to defend their positions while still maintaining a cordial atmosphere.

Throughout the episode, Maher also takes time to address his own political beliefs and frustrations with the current state of the nation. He expresses his disdain for the influence of money in politics, and advocates for a stronger safety net for the poor and working class.

Ultimately, Episode 217 of Real Time with Bill Maher season 9 is a thought-provoking and entertaining look at the major issues facing the United States in 2012. With a diverse group of guests and Maher's trademark humor, the episode manages to make complex topics accessible while still encouraging viewers to engage with important questions about the future of the country.