Trump Visits Palm Beach, Criticizes Bill Maher and Golfs with DeSantis

Former president's trip highlights ongoing influence and evolving Republican dynamics

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Donald Trump's recent visit to Palm Beach, Florida, was marked by public appearances, including a golf outing with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, as well as direct criticism of figures like comedian Bill Maher. The trip underscores Trump's continued influence within the Republican party and the complex relationship between the former president and potential rivals like DeSantis, who are vying for leadership and shaping the party's future.

Why it matters

Trump's visit and his interactions with DeSantis and the media provide insights into the evolving power dynamics within the Republican party. As Trump continues his second term, the interplay between established figures like himself and rising stars like DeSantis, coupled with ongoing cultural debates and media engagement strategies, will likely define the coming years in American politics.

The details

During his visit, Trump took to Truth Social to criticize Bill Maher, a prominent political commentator, highlighting the former president's continued use of social media platforms to engage directly with the media landscape. Meanwhile, Trump's golf outing with DeSantis, the Florida governor, is seen as a significant indicator of the ongoing relationship between the two Republican heavyweights, who represent different approaches and potential paths forward for the party.

  • Trump visited Palm Beach on February 17, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States, who is currently serving his second term. Trump's continued influence within the Republican party is a central focus of this story.

Ron DeSantis

The current governor of Florida, who is seen as a rising star within the Republican party and a potential rival to Trump's leadership.

Bill Maher

A prominent political commentator and comedian, who has been the target of criticism from Trump during the former president's visit to Palm Beach.

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What they’re saying

“Bill Maher was right about the sexualizing of kids. I'm glad he spoke up.”

— Ron DeSantis, Governor of Florida (Florida Politics)

What’s next

The ongoing relationship and potential rivalry between Trump and DeSantis will likely continue to shape the future of the Republican party, with the 2028 election cycle being a key focus for both politicians and their supporters.

The takeaway

Trump's visit to Palm Beach highlights the former president's continued influence within the Republican party, as well as the complex dynamics between established figures like himself and rising stars like DeSantis. The interplay between these political heavyweights, coupled with their media engagement strategies and the broader cultural debates, will define the coming years in American politics.