Comedian and HBO host Bill Maher challenged Gavin Newsom over California’s long-delayed high-speed rail project, highlighting ballooning costs and ongoing criticism of the state’s record.
During the interview, Maher warned that Newsom’s tenure as governor would face intense scrutiny if he pursues a presidential run, pointing to issues like high living costs, gas prices, and housing affordability in California.
The discussion quickly turned to the high-speed rail system, which has become one of the most controversial infrastructure projects in the country. Maher urged Newsom to abandon the effort, citing its massive price increase from early estimates to well over $200 billion.
Newsom defended the project, arguing that he inherited many of the challenges from prior administrations and pointing to legal battles and environmental regulations as key factors behind delays and rising costs. He maintained that progress is now being made, including early construction milestones.
? NEW: Bill Maher GRILLS Gavin Newsom over his biggest failures in blistering interview:
MAHER: “The other side, what they are going to say though is, but have you seen the stats from California?”
NEWSOM: “Good! One of the largest economies. Let’s go!”
MAHER: “Well… are they… pic.twitter.com/hS0fr3IFe7
— TV News Now (@TVNewsNow) May 2, 2026
Originally approved by voters in 2008 with a projected cost of roughly $33 billion to $45 billion and a target completion date around 2020, the project has faced repeated setbacks. Current estimates suggest the first phase may not be completed until the early 2030s.
Maher also questioned Newsom on his recent legal rhetoric toward media organizations, suggesting it resembled tactics used by President Donald Trump. Newsom defended his position, saying media outlets should be held accountable for false reporting.
The exchange underscored broader concerns about California’s policy direction and governance, as well as the political challenges Newsom could face on a national stage.
The post Bill Maher Presses Gavin Newsom On Costly High-Speed Rail Project appeared first on Real News Now.
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