On the latest episode of HBO’s “Real Time,” host Bill Maher raised alarms about the future of the Democratic Party, suggesting it may be at risk of becoming a “ghost brand,” akin to the once-thriving department store, Sears. Maher articulated his concerns on October 31, 2025, during a segment that drew parallels between the decline of the Democratic Party’s popularity and the fall of a retail giant that once played a significant role in American commerce.
Maher characterized a ghost brand as a company that lingers in existence but has lost its relevance and vitality. He stated, “Like Sears, it used to be mighty and ascendant and popular,” emphasizing that both entities have seen a drastic shift in public perception. He elaborated, “The brands that make you say, ‘Oh, they’re still making that,’ because they screwed themselves out of relevance.”
According to Maher, Sears once accounted for 1% of the entire U.S. economy and 41% of the country’s appliance market. However, the company’s inability to adapt to changing consumer preferences led to its decline, much like the Democratic Party’s struggles in the current political landscape. Maher pointed out that the party has reached its lowest approval ratings in 35 years, with 63% of the public expressing unfavorable views.
He questioned, “What happened? I don’t know. What happened to Sears?” The host lamented the party’s loss of influence, noting that Democrats once held significant power in Congress and the Supreme Court. He contrasted this historical dominance with the current challenges the party faces, especially with the ongoing influence of former President Donald Trump.
Maher continued his critique by referencing the adult lifestyle brand Playboy, humorously suggesting that it too has lost its way. He claimed that Playboy’s shift in branding strategies, including featuring transgender women and gay men, alienated its traditional audience. “Like the Democratic Party, Playboy decided they didn’t need straight men anymore,” he remarked, indicating that such changes led to a decline in sales and readership.
Additionally, Maher referenced the fate of another former retail powerhouse, Barneys, which filed for bankruptcy in 2019. He quipped that after Barneys closed its flagship store, it became a “spirit Halloween,” reinforcing his point about the necessity for the Democratic Party to recalibrate its approach.
He concluded with a strong call for action, stating, “Democrats need to get their s— together because America needs two political parties, not one party and one Halloween store.” This statement encapsulates his broader concern about the need for a revitalized Democratic Party that can effectively engage with voters and remain a vital component of American democracy.
Maher’s comments reflect a growing sentiment among some political observers regarding the challenges the Democratic Party faces. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the ability of the party to adapt and resonate with voters will be crucial to its future.
