Kimmel Mocks Trump’s Rally Claims and Gas Price Promises

Key points

• Trump called Kimmel a 'loser' at a rally for pointing out empty seats at a previous event.
• Kimmel responded by showing a photo of a half-empty rally in Alabama and mocking Trump’s cognitive function.
• Kimmel highlighted that the average gasoline price is $4.36, contradicting Trump’s past promise of sub-$2 gas.
• Kimmel criticized the administration for 'lying and stealing,' referencing the National Medal of Science award to Elon Musk.
• Kimmel mocked Trump’s comments about Iran’s ability to attack US cities, noting the geographical impossibility.

Background

The conflict between Kimmel and Trump has escalated over the past few years, with Kimmel frequently criticizing the president’s policies and rhetoric. In September 2026, Kimmel faced criticism from FCC Chairman Brendan Carr over a YouTube interview with James Talarico, which Carr called a 'hoax.' Additionally, Kimmel has been involved in debates over the future of his show, with ABC denying rumors of its cancellation. The 2026 Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Navi Pillay, prompting further criticism from late-night hosts, including Kimmel, who mocked Trump’s unsuccessful campaign for the award.

How outlets are covering it

Rolling Stone focuses on Kimmel’s direct response to Trump’s 'loser' comment, highlighting the empty seats at the rally and Kimmel’s mocking tone. The Guardian provides a broader context of Kimmel’s criticisms of the administration, including the National Medal of Science award to Elon Musk and Trump’s comments about Iran. Mashable emphasizes Kimmel’s critique of Trump’s broken promises, specifically regarding gasoline prices. All three outlets agree on the ongoing feud between Kimmel and Trump, but they emphasize different aspects of the late-night host’s criticism.

Why it matters

The exchange between Kimmel and Trump highlights the ongoing tension between late-night comedy and political leadership in the US. Kimmel’s criticism of the administration’s actions and rhetoric reflects a broader trend of late-night hosts using humor to critique political figures. The feud also underscores the role of media in shaping public perception of political events and figures, with Kimmel’s show serving as a platform for political satire and criticism.

What to watch

The feud between Kimmel and Trump is likely to continue, with Kimmel using his platform to critique the administration’s actions and rhetoric. The ongoing debate over the future of Kimmel’s show and the FCC’s enforcement of the equal-time rule may also have implications for late-night TV and political access. The 2026 Nobel Peace Prize and the administration’s military conflicts may also provide further opportunities for Kimmel to critique the president’s policies and rhetoric.