Bill Maher's New Rules, April 3, 2009

Real Time with Bill Maher was back on its game this week, with a very entertaining show. And the interesting thing was, the panel included two conservatives, and there was even an appearance by Samuel "Joe the Plumber" Wurtzelbacher. OK, that last bit could have been excised, and while Maher did get in a few sly digs, too much credence was given to Wurtzelbacher as a legitimate personality.

That aside, the discussion was engaging for the whole show, with Sam Donaldson, David Frum, and Reihan Salam providing spirited discussion. I still want to slap Frum for being so condescending and patronizing, but he reminds me so much of a conservative friend of mine (hi, Jeff!), I just can't get mad at him. Carol Leifer was the sore thumb in the mix, but she's so funny and bright, it didn't matter that she didn't meld with the rest of the group.

As usual, New Rules was a standout part of the show, and it was in fact the best installment this season. Maher's take down of circus side show Glenn Beck was brilliant, with the final part of the segment the icing on the cake. I actually applauded the TV at the end. So, enjoy. . .

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