Picture this: The leader of the free world, locked in a never-ending battle of wits with America's comedy giants on late-night TV. Donald Trump's latest clash with Seth Meyers over a seemingly silly joke about naval technology has the internet buzzing—and it raises big questions about free speech, celebrity feuds, and who really gets the last laugh. But here's where it gets controversial: Is Trump's suggestion that such mockery could be 'illegal' just bluster, or a genuine threat to comedic expression? Stick around, because this saga reveals so much about modern politics and entertainment.
Donald Trump, as you might know, has been vocal about his disdain for several prominent late-night talk show hosts. He's openly celebrated moments like the cancellation of Stephen Colbert's show by CBS earlier this year, and the temporary removal of Jimmy Kimmel's program from ABC's lineup after Kimmel made pointed remarks about conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. Now, Trump's ire has turned to Seth Meyers, prompted by a recent bit on Meyers' show that poked fun at the former president's comments during a speech to U.S. troops in Japan. At the center of it all? Trump's apparent fascination with 'steam catapults' on aircraft carriers.
To make this easier to grasp, especially for those new to military tech, let's break it down simply. Aircraft carriers launch planes using catapults—powerful systems that propel jets off the deck at incredible speeds. Traditionally, many ships used steam-powered catapults, which rely on high-pressure steam to do the job. More recently, the Navy has upgraded to electromagnetic catapults, like those on the Ford-class carriers. These new systems are quieter, more reliable, and potentially more efficient, but they come with a hefty price tag and technological complexities. Trump, however, has voiced a preference for the older steam versions, arguing they're cheaper and just as effective. And this is the part most people miss: His remarks during that Japan address highlighted this obsession, which Meyers seized upon for some lighthearted ribbing.
On his show, Seth Meyers replayed clips of Trump's speech, where the president enthusiastically touted steam catapults as superior. Meyers joked about Trump's fixation, quipping, 'I'll try my best to explain the gist of what he's talking about in a new segment we're calling "Seth Translates Trump to English."' He then clarified for viewers why catapults matter on carriers: they help planes take off safely, even in rough seas. Meyers pointed out the Navy's shift to electromagnetic systems, which use electricity to launch planes more precisely. As an added twist, he humorously suggested Trump might oppose them because 'he thinks, I don't know, electricity votes for Democrats or something.' To drive the point home, Meyers referenced Trump's self-proclaimed expertise in aviation, likening his dance moves on stage to those of an aircraft marshaller—the folks who guide planes on runways with glowing sticks. A funny clip showed Trump dancing, edited to look like he's dressed as one of these marshals. It was all in good fun, but Trump's reaction? Not so much.
And this is where the controversy heats up: Trump's response, posted on Truth Social (his own platform, created after being banned from Twitter amid the January 6 events), was scathing. He declared Seth 'may be the least talented person to "perform" live in the history of television,' and even claimed he might be 'the WORST to perform, live or otherwise.' Trump mentioned tuning into Meyers' show 'the other night for the first time in years,' and criticized the host for ranting about 'electric catapults on aircraft carriers which I complain about as not being as good as much less expensive steam catapults.' He called Meyers 'a truly deranged lunatic' and questioned why NBC invests in someone with 'NO TALENT, NO RATINGS, 100% ANTI TRUMP, WHICH IS PROBABLY ILLEGAL!!!'
This isn't Trump's first run-in with Seth. Back in August, he posted on Truth Social about NBC renewing Meyers' contract (announced in May), calling it a 'sick rumor' and labeling the host as 'one of the least talented Late Night television hosts out there.' He accused Meyers of lacking 'Ratings, Talent, or Intelligence,' comparing his personality to 'an insecure child.' Trump vowed to 'be finding out' why NBC made such a move. It's clear this feud has been simmering, and Trump's latest outburst suggests it's far from over.
Now, think about this: In a world where comedy often skewers the powerful, is it fair for a president to claim that jokes about him cross into illegal territory? Some might argue it's an overreach, stifling free speech and the tradition of satirical humor. Others could see it as Trump standing up for himself against perceived bias in the media. What do you think—should late-night hosts be able to roast politicians without fear of repercussions, or does Trump's platform give him a right to push back? Do you agree that this is 'probably illegal,' or is it just part of the political theater? Share your thoughts in the comments below; I'd love to hear differing opinions and spark some discussion!
