Bill Maher Prods Senator John Fetterman To Talk About His Depression On ‘Real Time’

Last night on HBO‘s Real Time with Bill Maher, the hooded Senator John Fetterman spoke candidly about his struggles with depression and mental health.

Right off the bat, Maher noted how Fetterman speaks “so freely. You speak like (the politicians) out of office, and it’s a beautiful thing.”

Fetterman had suffered a stroke before his election and has previously shared his personal experience with depression. Maher asked if the publicized nature of the events had anything to do with his willingness to speak so openly.

The senator responded saying he feels like it does. “That’s not reckless. It’s freeing. I think after all that, I have to say the things I really believe in and not worry about if there’s any kind of blowback.”

Fetterman explained that he aims to help others who are dealing with depression. “That’s why I wanted to have that conversation. I want to say something to help someone in that situation.”

Regarding the 2024 presidential race, Fetterman contended that “Pennsylvania picks the winner” and that Joe Biden will win again. When asked if Biden is the best choice, Fetterman noted the current president’s winning track record.

Later in the conversation, the topic of legal marijuana came up. Maher, an avid weed smoker, also asked Fetterman about his support for legalizing weed.

“I’ve heard that about you, too,” Fetterman interjected.

“It’s just a character I play on TV,” Maher quipped.

The HBO host also asked Fetterman about his attire which ultimately influenced a more relaxed dress code for the Senate. The Pennsylvania Senator has been known to sport a hoodie, shorts, and sneakers on the Senate floor.

Fetterman joked with Maher about a previous joke he made on the show about how he dresses like a guy whom the airlines lost his luggage.

“I’m not making a statement,” Fetterman said. “I am into comfort, and I don’t have to iron, and it’s hard to find suits,” referencing his 6-foot, eight-inch frame. “I never understood why anyone thought that was interesting.”

He doesn’t think he had much to do with the dress code change, however, he noted, “More people seemed concerned about me wearing a hoodie on the floor than Senators taking bribes.”

Head over to Max to watch last night’s episode and catch new episodes of Real Time with Bill Maher on Fridays at 10 p.m. ET on HBO.