I made a similar argument yesterday but it seems the prevalent opinion is that the use of that word trumps all other considerations. I can't say I totally agree, but I can see that Maher's use of it was pretty random and unnecessary. And the joke was probably not funny enough to justify the usage.

Um do you seriously think Maher is the left's best ally? No wonder we're fucked.

I'd buy tickets.

Goddamn it's gotta suck to be a celebrity. When I think of all the random shit I've liked on IG or Twitter… yikes.

Just listen on Spotify lol.

I was rejecting Ricky's suggestion. Edited to hopefully make more clear.

I think he got the idea from that Louis CK bit.

Why is it so bad to avoid saying such an offensive word though? Personally I would never be comfortable saying that word even in reference to something someone else said. It's understandable to distance yourself from it, and either way everyone knows what you're talking about.

#CancelColbertANDMaher

Lol. It's creepy how you think you can speak for an entire group of people dude.

The black people I know make much more offensive jokes than this regularly. Like I said, different worlds.

Lol I guess I just live in a different world than you. I don't know anyone who would be harmed/offended by this.

Because it was a joke not directed at anyone?

Wait, does he drive a delivery truck in this show too? Lol that's great.

??? But aren't all relationships based on superficial considerations like money and status? I've never been in one, I just get all my sensibilities about romance from the porn I watch.

Okay this conversation seems pointless now lol.

???

Sasse was obviously not speaking about slavery, but Maher twisted his words to make it sound like that. Seems obvious.

No, like I said, just when Republicans refer to it.

Hm well I guess there's just a fundamental disagreement between us on the idea that comedy is subjective, as well as the didactic rules you want to impose on it.