Real Time with Bill Maher Ep. #519: Steve Bannon, Fareed Zakaria
Feb 8, 2020
Steve Bannon, former White House chief strategist known for his right-wing populism, and Fareed Zakaria, a journalist and CNN host, engage in a lively discussion about today's political landscape. They tackle the challenges of political polarization, the impacts of party dynamics, and voter suppression. Humor weaves through serious topics like healthcare and racial politics. The conversation also critiques America's drift toward authoritarianism and the complexities of immigration policy, urging for a more inclusive electoral process amidst rising economic disparities.
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Mitt Romney's Flip-Flops
- Bill Maher recalls Mitt Romney's flip-flopping political positions on issues like abortion, gun control, and climate change.
- Maher suggests Romney's recent courageous act might be driven by a desire to be president again.
Right-Wing Populism's Rise
- Fareed Zakaria observes that right-wing populism is outperforming left-wing populism, especially after financial crises.
- He suggests that during anxious times, people prioritize cultural identity over economic concerns, leading them rightward.
Politics of Symbolism
- Fareed Zakaria advises against relying solely on complex policy programs to win elections.
- He suggests focusing on symbolic communication and emotional appeals, like Trump's simple slogans.