Stephen Colbert took aim at a recent fundraiser hosted at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort, suggesting that the whimsical nature of the event might have presented a unique challenge for the 79-year-old former president’s cognitive skills. During his opening monologue on Thursday night, Colbert humorously highlighted the “Hero Dog Awards Gala,” which was adorned with a peculiar 18th-century theme.
Colbert introduced the event, organized by the Humane Society, as a gathering aimed at recognizing dogs that assist law enforcement and first responders. “There is one place folks are still having fun. That’s Mar-a-Lago,” he remarked, mentioning the gala’s purpose to celebrate hero dogs.
With sharp wit, Colbert envisioned the gala’s decorations, quipping, “I’m sure you’re thinking there’s going to be cute doggy decorations, maybe a poodle-shaped cake, sexualized human dog hybrids, and ball gowns.” Instead, the event showcased attendees and performers clad in alarming dog masks and elaborate aristocratic attire, which drew significant attention and mockery on social media. California Governor Gavin Newsom’s press office even chimed in, questioning, “Why is Donald Trump hosting a FURRY PARTY???”
Colbert further lampooned the extravagant costumes on display, drawing a parallel to historical figures and their opulence. “I mean, look at those fancy Rococo dresses. Reminds me of that famous Marie Antoinette quote: ‘Let them eat cake, but not chocolate,’” he quipped.
Despite the bizarre atmosphere, Colbert noted that Trump did eventually show up at the fundraiser, albeit late, which he suggested could be confusing for someone struggling to maintain focus on reality. He entertained the audience with a humorous imitation of Trump attempting to navigate animal-themed cognitive tests, stating, “Dog, dog, dog, dog, giraffe. Damn it, dog.”
As Colbert’s comedic reflections on the gala highlight the lighter side of political events, they also showcase the amusing intersection of politics and pop culture, reminding viewers that humor can be found even in the most unconventional settings.