AOC, Sanders, Palestine Chants and More [WATCH]

During the latest episode of HBO’s “Real Time,” host Bill Maher expressed skepticism about Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s (D-NY) chances as a future Democratic presidential candidate, while raising broader concerns about the Democratic Party’s priorities and political direction.

Maher opened a panel discussion by highlighting the growing crowds at recent “Fight Oligarchy” rallies hosted by Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT).

After one audience member applauded, Maher responded, “Thank you. There’s that same guy, I call him the ‘always wrong’ guy – I’m kidding.”

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He went on to caution against placing too much emphasis on large rally turnouts.

“I feel like big crowds, again, these shiny objects that the Democrats chase. It’s not about the big crowds when you’re talking at a festival or wherever they are,” Maher said.

“Because I think that Bernie showed up at Coachella. That must’ve been fun for the fans. It’s who shows up on Election Day. And I just don’t see that’s the ticket.”

Maher criticized Senate Democrats for public displays like Sen. Cory Booker’s 25-hour floor speech, referring to it as Democrats “whacking each other off.”

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Sen. Tina Smith (D-MN), who was on the panel, defended Booker’s speech as energizing for the party but acknowledged the need for more effort to win back voters.

When Maher directly asked Smith whether Ocasio-Cortez should be the Democratic nominee in 2028, she responded, “It’s not my job to pick who the candidate is going to be.” Maher responded, “Oh, it’s mine. And it’s not – it shouldn’t be her. It shouldn’t be her.”

Ocasio-Cortez has recently gained traction in Democratic primary polls, ranking second behind Vice President Kamala Harris in at least one survey.

Political analyst Nate Silver stated earlier this week that Ocasio-Cortez is currently the most likely candidate to secure the 2028 Democratic nomination, although she has not announced any plans to run.

Earlier in the show, Maher also addressed an incident at a recent rally featuring Ocasio-Cortez and Sanders.

During the event, anti-Israel demonstrators dropped a “Free Palestine” banner over an American flag.

Police removed the protesters, but the rally was disrupted as attendees began chanting “Free Palestine,” halting Sanders’ speech.

“I kind of worry that that’s where the Democratic Party is, that this is their next stupid hill to die on,” Maher said.

“So the chant of ‘Free Palestine,’ free from whom I would like to ask. Do they realize who is really the people who are enslaving the people of Palestine?”

Joining Maher, columnist Douglas Murray responded, “If those moronic people had any knowledge, they would say ‘Free Palestine from Hamas,’” to which Maher agreed.

Later in the program, Maher mocked Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, another name being floated as a potential 2028 contender.

Maher referenced Whitmer’s recent visit to the Oval Office, where she was photographed trying to shield her face with a folder while sitting with President Donald Trump.

“We need a better Democrat than that,” Maher remarked.

Whitmer, currently serving her second term, is considered a high-profile figure within the party and has been mentioned among possible contenders for national office.

Maher’s commentary reflects ongoing internal debate within the Democratic Party about its future direction, messaging, and likely 2028 nominees.

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