UPDATE: Bill Maher has just issued a stark warning about the future of the Democratic Party, comparing its current state to that of the now-defunct retail giant, Sears. On the latest episode of “Real Time,” aired on October 31, 2025, Maher expressed deep concern that the party is at risk of becoming a “ghost brand,” a term he used to describe companies that linger in the marketplace but have lost their relevance.
“The cautionary tale of the ghost brand is an important one because it applies not only to business but also to politics,” Maher stated. He elaborated that once dominant brands, like Sears, become mere shadows of their former selves, similar to the plight of the Democratic Party in today’s political landscape.
Maher pointed out that Sears once accounted for 1% of the entire U.S. economy and held a staggering 41% of the appliance market. “But now, just like Sears, the Democrats have their lowest rating in 35 years, with 63% unfavorable ratings,” he noted.
He questioned, “What happened? I don’t know. What happened to Sears?” His comparison to the retail giant served as a wake-up call, urging the Democratic Party to reassess its strategies and reconnect with the electorate.
The host critically assessed the party’s diminishing influence, recalling a time when Democrats had robust control over Congress and the Supreme Court. “Democrats used to be synonymous with the American dream because they kept faith with what the customer wanted,” he added, suggesting a disconnect between the party and the American public.
Maher also invoked the symbol of another fading brand, Playboy, stating, “Like the Democratic Party, Playboy decided they didn’t need straight men anymore.” This analogy highlighted how both entities have strayed from their core audiences, resulting in a drastic decline in support.
He humorously remarked on the cultural shift within Playboy, drawing attention to how their new direction led to a collapse in sales. “The staff began using terms like intersectionality and sex positivity, and in response, Playboy readers said, ‘No thanks, get the f— out of here,’” he quipped, illustrating how essential it is for brands—and political parties—to maintain their relevance and connection to their base.
Maher didn’t stop there; he concluded with a jab at Barneys, the once-prominent retail store that filed for bankruptcy in 2019. “After Barneys closed for good in 2020, it became, yes, a spirit Halloween,” he joked, reinforcing his point that America needs viable political choices, not a party that resembles a Halloween store.
As Maher’s criticisms resonate, the urgency for the Democratic Party to revitalize its brand and reconnect with voters is palpable. With looming elections and critical decisions ahead, the party’s ability to redefine itself could have significant implications for the political landscape in America.
This developing story underscores the critical need for political entities to remain relevant in a rapidly changing environment. Will the Democratic Party heed Maher’s warnings and make the necessary changes to avoid becoming a ghost of its former self? Only time will tell.
