A Presidential Nod

In the unconventional world of late-night satirical media, one name has repeatedly surfaced under the watchful eye of Donald Trump: Greg Gutfeld. The host of Gutfeld! on Fox News has long blended political commentary with biting humor, earning high ratings and, notably, Trump’s approval. This article investigates why—and in what ways—Trump’s positive remarks about Gutfeld may indeed be justified, shedding light on the media landscape, ideological alignment, and audience dynamics.

Who Is Greg Gutfeld? The Man Behind the Host

Greg Gutfeld, born in 1964, is a political commentator, comedian, and TV host on Fox News. He leads the late-night satirical talk show Gutfeld!, which since 2021 airs on weeknights and continues the legacy of his earlier programs The Greg Gutfeld Show and Red Eye. He also co-hosts The Five.

Since its primetime debut, Gutfeld! has seen explosive growth in viewership. In August 2021, it overtook The Late Show in nightly ratings. By early 2022, it averaged over 2.1 million viewers, outperforming The Tonight Show and Jimmy Kimmel Live!

The Trump–Gutfeld Connection: Praise and Alignment

In a May 2025 interview, Gutfeld articulated why he supports Trump. He praised the former president for erasing the line between politics and entertainment—a strategy that boosted authenticity and appeal, especially in a media-weary audience. Gutfeld described Trump as “persuasive, transparent, and apolitical.”

This sentiment aligns closely with Trump’s own media philosophy: be provocative, unapologetic, and never purely political.

Validating Trump’s Praise: Why He Might Be Right

Cultural Impact and Ratings Success

Gutfeld’s rapid rise is hard to argue with. His show’s ratings surpassed traditional late-night giants—something few political commentators can claim. That success underscores a growing appetite for satirical commentary rooted in topical, irreverent discourse.

In praising Trump, Gutfeld points to a broader trend: the intertwining of political messaging with entertainment. Trump’s tenure and media presence reshaped expectations for political communication—making it less formal, more emotionally direct. In this realm, Gutfeld thrives, offering commentary that feels authentic and unscripted.

Libertarian Leanings and Anti-Establishment Tone

Gutfeld identifies as libertarian and regularly critiques both political parties and identity politics. Trump’s detractors often target establishment media, and Gutfeld’s skepticism toward journalistic orthodoxy also resonates with populist sentiments.

Criticisms and Controversies: Not All Sunshine

Still, Gutfeld’s journey has not been without controversy. His style—sometimes labeled “insult conservatism”—allows him to mask serious arguments as jokes and vice versa, often leaving audiences uncertain about where satire ends and sincerity begins.

Moreover, some observers argue his rhetoric has become increasingly sycophantic toward Trump, drifting toward extreme or unhinged positions.

Contextualizing the Praise: What It Means for Media Today

A Shift in Trust & Authenticity

Gutfeld’s emphasis on skepticism toward the media echoes broader public distrust. Amid sensational cycles, audiences gravitate toward figures who feel candid—even if that candor comes wrapped in satire.

The Power of Personality Over Policy

Gutfeld and Trump share a focus on personality-driven narratives. Policy complexity often fades behind memorable lines, emotional resonance, and rhetorical flair—an effective formula in today’s fragmented media.

Commercially Rewarding Provocation

For Fox News, Gutfeld provides profitable shock value. His irreverent brand attracts viewers who crave satire mixed with partisan critique—an intersection that proves lucrative.

Conclusion: Was Trump Right?

From a strategic standpoint, Trump’s praise of Gutfeld makes sense. Gutfeld’s resonance with audiences, his fusion of entertainment and political commentary, and his anti-establishment messaging align with what made Trump himself stand out. In that light, the assertion that “Trump was right about this guy” appears less opinion and more

Whether one admires or criticizes Gutfeld’s approach, his role in reshaping political satire—and validating Trump’s own media instincts—marks a significant moment in late-night television and political communication.

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