Bill Maher Tells Vice President JD Vance His 2028 Vote Is in Play

Bill Maher told Vice President JD Vance on Friday that his vote in the 2028 presidential election could go to a Republican if the Democratic Party continues shifting left. The "Real Time" host made the comment during an HBO appearance, saying his support would hinge on whether Democrats embrace policies such as democratic socialism and criticism of Israel.

"Like, if this is where the Democratic Party is going, where this Democratic socialist, this obsession with Israel, with the Jew hating, they don’t believe in capitalism, no prisons. If this is where they’re going, my vote is in play," Maher said. Vance responded positively to the remark.

Maher added that he has historically voted for Democratic candidates and does not decide based solely on party labels.

Maher said any potential support for a Republican would require the candidate to accept election outcomes rather than dispute them. Vance declined to give the assurance Maher sought, noting that past complaints focused on 2020 and actions by technology companies. "OK, Bill, so this is where I’m probably gonna lose you here," Vance said.

Maher also expressed frustration that several high-profile Democrats have turned down invitations to appear on his program. "I can’t get AOC, I can’t get Mamdani, I couldn’t get Kamala Harris. Took me eight years to get Obama!" he said.

The discussion occurred days after a Democratic Socialists of America member won a congressional primary in New York. Darializa Avila Chevalier defeated incumbent Rep. Adriano Espaillat in Tuesday’s primary for New York’s 13th Congressional District, the New York Post reported. She was among several candidates backed by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani who prevailed in their races.