Fetterman and Maher say viral LA riot images and Democrats’ response could strengthen Trump’s political position.

Fetterman, Maher Voice Concern Over Riot Optics

Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania and “Real Time” host Bill Maher agreed that viral images of violence and chaos during anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles could prove politically advantageous for President Donald Trump. Their discussion underscored growing concern among Democrats that public perceptions of the party’s reaction to unrest may harm their standing with voters.

Maher noted that some on the left criticized Fetterman for publicly denouncing the violence. Both agreed that defending violent protests does not help the Democratic Party. “When they see it in a campaign ad, when they see the guy with the Mexican flag and the Waymo burning behind him, it’s going to be good for Trump,” Maher said, referencing a viral image circulated from the riots.

Fetterman echoed the sentiment, noting that “most Americans don’t want to see Los Angeles on fire twice in just six months now.” He reflected on how voters in places like Scranton might react to such images, questioning how these optics could play in key regions.

Party Identity and Political Consequences

The conversation shifted to internal Democratic debates over values and public messaging. Maher argued that while he and Fetterman still share core Democratic beliefs on free speech and immigration, the political environment has changed. Fetterman agreed, saying, “It’s like your values — I don’t think have changed — I know mine haven’t really changed. But I think our party has changed and now if you actually kind of point out and call out a lot of these things, you know, you do take a political price for a lot of those things.”

Maher described himself as an “old-school Democrat,” with Fetterman concurring that the labels “progressive” and “moderate” have become blurred in current discourse. Both cautioned that optics and campaign narratives tied to scenes of urban unrest could shift voter attitudes. As Democrats debate their response to civil unrest and party identity, Fetterman and Maher’s conversation signals growing unease over the potential impact of images spreading rapidly on social media. The challenge of reconciling party values and public perception may prove pivotal.