Real Time with Bill Maher Hosts Kara Swisher, Rahm Emanuel, and Jake Sullivan

The latest episode features high-profile guests discussing current events and politics.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 10:05pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a lush, velvety red fabric, capturing the intricate texture and dramatic lighting to create a sense of glamour and sophistication.The star-studded lineup of guests on Real Time with Bill Maher reflects the show's ability to attract high-profile figures and foster engaging discussions on the issues of the day.Chicago Today

The latest episode of the long-running political talk show Real Time with Bill Maher featured a one-on-one interview with Kara Swisher, the award-winning podcast host and executive producer who recently launched a new CNN Original Series. The panel discussion included former White House Chief of Staff and Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel, as well as Jake Sullivan, co-host of the podcast "The Long Game" and former U.S. National Security Advisor under President Biden.

Why it matters

As a prominent political talk show, Real Time with Bill Maher regularly hosts influential figures from government, media, and academia to discuss the key issues and events shaping the national discourse. The lineup of guests for this episode represents a diverse range of perspectives and expertise that can provide valuable insights for viewers.

The details

In the one-on-one interview, Kara Swisher discussed her new CNN series and shared her views on the evolving media landscape and the role of technology in society. The panel discussion with Rahm Emanuel and Jake Sullivan covered a range of topics, including the Biden administration's foreign policy agenda, the state of the Democratic party, and the broader political climate in the United States.

  • The episode of Real Time with Bill Maher aired on April 17, 2026.

The players

Kara Swisher

An award-winning podcast host, executive producer, and host of the new CNN Original Series "Kara Swisher Wants to Live Forever".

Rahm Emanuel

Former White House Chief of Staff, Chicago mayor, and U.S. Ambassador to Japan under President Biden.

Jake Sullivan

Co-host of "The Long Game" podcast, professor at Harvard's John F. Kennedy School of Government, and former U.S. National Security Advisor under President Biden.

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What they’re saying

“The media landscape is constantly evolving, and it's important for us to stay ahead of the curve and find new ways to engage with audiences.”

— Kara Swisher, Host, "Kara Swisher Wants to Live Forever"

“As a former mayor and White House official, I've seen firsthand the challenges and complexities of policymaking in today's political climate.”

— Rahm Emanuel, Former White House Chief of Staff and Chicago Mayor

“It's crucial that we continue to have open and honest dialogues about the pressing issues facing our country, even when there are differing perspectives.”

— Jake Sullivan, Former U.S. National Security Advisor

The takeaway

This episode of Real Time with Bill Maher showcases the show's ability to bring together influential figures from diverse backgrounds to engage in substantive discussions on the key political and social issues of the day. The insights and perspectives shared by the guests can help inform and shape the ongoing national dialogue.