Comedian Bill Maher took aim at President Trump on Friday night, mocking his repeated use of dolls as a metaphor for why American families should scale back on consumer goods amid rising prices caused by his escalating trade war.
On his show, Maher joked about Trump’s apparent fixation, saying, “He’s obsessed with how many dolls we get to have. What is it with the dolls?” He pointed out that Trump had defended his tariffs three separate times in just one week by referencing how many dolls children should own. The remarks drew laughter from the audience but also highlighted a broader unease.
Trump has argued that rising costs are part of a necessary “transition period” as the country resets its trade relationships. In that process, the White House has urged Americans to adjust their expectations, even if that means higher prices and fewer goods. Retailers have voiced concerns that the new tariffs will drive up the cost of everyday items, including children’s toys, strollers, and school supplies.
Rather than acknowledge the strain these costs could place on working families, Trump minimized the issue. “Maybe the children will have two dolls instead of 30,” he said during a recent public appearance. “And maybe the two dolls will cost a couple bucks more.” His Treasury Secretary and deputy chief of staff echoed the sentiment, arguing that small sacrifices were worth long-term economic gains.
But for many, including Maher, this approach feels tone-deaf. Critics argue that the president should not be using children’s needs as a bargaining chip in a trade dispute that’s already sending shockwaves through household budgets. In a time when many families are struggling to afford basics, suggesting that children should “settle” for less especially when it comes to their happiness and development is not only unrelatable, it’s insensitive.
Trump’s messaging, once centered on prosperity and affordability, has shifted into something that sounds more like rationing. While political humor might soften the blow, there’s growing concern that using kids’ toys to justify economic pain crosses a line and Trump should think twice before dragging children into a policy battle they didn’t ask to be part of.