Bill Maher drags Gavin Newsom for high-speed rail and sky-high gas in blistering interview
Bill Maher criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom during a live interview over the state's high-speed rail project and rising gas prices. Despite being a political ally, Maher challenged Newsom on economic issues affecting residents, including housing and infrastructure costs. The exchange also touched on Newsom's combative political style, which Maher compared to former President Donald Trump's.
- ▪Bill Maher urged Gavin Newsom to abandon California's high-speed rail project, citing its $231 billion price tag.
- ▪Maher questioned Newsom about high gas prices and rents, highlighting economic struggles under his leadership.
- ▪Newsom defended California's economy by citing its status as the fourth-largest globally.
- ▪Maher argued that Newsom's aggressive rhetoric and legal threats against media outlets mirror Donald Trump's tactics.
- ▪Newsom maintained that holding media accountable for defamation is justified.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Metro Bill Maher drags Gavin Newsom for high-speed rail and sky-high gas in blistering interview By Pierce Sharpe Published May 2, 2026, 12:56 a.m. ET California Gov. Gavin Newsom walked into friendly territory — and still got hammered. During a Friday night appearance on Real Time with Bill Maher, the Democrat was supposed to plug his memoir and trade political jabs. Instead, host Bill Maher put Newsom on the spot over the very issues dogging his leadership in the state. Maher, who’s previously encouraged Newsom to run for president, didn’t hold back, especially when it came to California’s long-troubled high-speed rail project.
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