Trump criticizes Bill Maher and suggests shutting down New York Times.

Former President Donald Trump took aim at comedian Bill Maher and The New York Times in a recent interview, labeling Maher a “befuddled mess” and suggesting that the iconic newspaper should be “put to sleep.”

In a discussion with Fox News host Sean Hannity, Trump criticized Maher’s comments about him and his supporters on his HBO show “Real Time with Bill Maher.” He referred to Maher as a “jerk,” stating, “I watched him a few weeks ago and he was so pathetic … The hatred he has for me … I don’t know what it is.” Trump also took issue with Maher’s criticism of Republican voters, saying, “He can’t help himself.”

Trump’s comments on The New York Times came in response to a question about the decline of the newspaper industry. “The New York Times is a very dishonest newspaper,” Trump said. “It’s failing, it’s losing a fortune, it’s going to be dead very soon.”

He went on to suggest that the paper should be shut down, saying, “It’s a failing newspaper. It’s a very sad thing. If that newspaper had not existed … it would be a whole different thing and the country would be a whole different place.”

Trump’s criticism of Maher and The New York Times is just the latest in a string of attacks on prominent media figures and outlets. Throughout his presidency and beyond, Trump has frequently clashed with the press, accusing them of bias and spreading “fake news.”

Despite his criticisms, Trump enjoys strong support among his followers, who often echo his sentiments about the media. Many of his supporters view him as a champion of free speech and a bulwark against what they perceive as media manipulation and falsehoods.

Trump’s words may resonate with those who share his distrust of mainstream media outlets and his belief that they are out to get him. His attacks on Maher and The New York Times are likely to fuel further debate about the role of the media in American society and the importance of objective reporting.

As Trump continues to make headlines with his controversial statements, it remains to be seen how his ongoing feud with the media will shape public opinion and influence the political landscape.

For now, the war of words between Trump and his media critics rages on, with no end in sight. Whether you love him or loathe him, there’s no denying that Trump knows how to grab headlines and keep the public talking.