Bill Maher Criticizes California Democrats on Education and Green Energy

Bill Maher, during his show Real Time with Bill Maher, criticized California Democrats for their handling of education and green energy policies, suggesting states like Mississippi and Texas are performing better on key issues. Maher stated that these issues, including education, race, and the environment, are typically central to Democratic campaigns, yet California is lagging behind.

Maher challenged Democrats by saying, “You’re losing to the Waffle House, car-on-the-lawn states.”

Using education as a poignant example, Maher highlighted California’s struggles in comparison to Mississippi. He pointed out that Black fourth-grade students in Mississippi are more than twice as likely to be proficient in math and reading than those in California. According to 2024 National Assessment of Educational Programs data, 19% of Black fourth-graders in Mississippi are proficient in reading, while only 7% in California reach the same level.

Maher also criticized California’s progress in clean energy compared to Texas, noting Texas has surpassed California in solar energy production and wind energy initiatives. Data from the Energy Information Administration shows Texas produced more gigawatt-hours from utility-scale solar than California in 2025.

Maher attributed these differences to policy and bureaucratic challenges in California. He suggested that the complexity of regulations and permitting processes are hindering progress.

Maher referenced San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan’s gubernatorial campaign and a UC Berkeley Institute poll showing Mahan at 4% popularity, underscoring the difficulties faced by Democrats in the state.

He outlined various challenges California faces, such as slowed infrastructure projects, unaddressed potholes, housing issues for the homeless, and poor educational outcomes for students.

Additionally, Maher addressed Republican critiques, mentioning retiring senators who have shifted their stance on former President Donald Trump and expressed frustration with his leadership.