Rachel Maddow recently concluded her special 100-day hosting run on MSNBC, during which she covered President Donald Trump’s policies and comments in depth. On her final night of the extended engagement, she shared a humorous exchange with fellow MSNBC host Lawrence O’Donnell, reacting to Trump’s remarks about how parents should limit their children’s possessions, specifically saying kids only need “three dolls” and “five pencils.”
Maddow’s coverage was part of her return to hosting The Rachel Maddow Show five nights a week, coinciding with Trump’s first 100 days back in office. Starting May 6, Maddow will revert to her usual Monday night slot, while former Biden spokesperson Jen Psaki takes over the 9 PM ET slot during the week.
During the segment that aired after Trump’s interview on NBC’s Meet the Press, Maddow expressed disbelief at Trump’s assumptions about family budgets, laughing as she questioned how dolls and pencils could be seen as significant expenses for families struggling in the current economic landscape. “The idea that he thinks that, if you’re raising a kid right now in 2025 in the United States of America, the thing you’re most thinking about is pencils and dolls… It’s just a remarkable window into his mind,” she remarked.
O’Donnell chimed in with a light-hearted observation, suggesting that Trump’s views may reflect a bygone era, adding, “The most charitable thing that can be said about that is that he’s a 20th century guy.” The exchange highlighted a disconnect between Trump’s comments and the daily challenges faced by many families today.
This humorous take on the situation shows the lighter side of political commentary and how discussions around economics can sometimes veer into absurdity. It’s a reminder that while political leaders make decisions that impact families, their understanding of everyday life can often be out of touch.
Viewers can continue to catch Maddow and O’Donnell’s commentary on their respective shows each weeknight on MSNBC.