Dave Chappelle: Trump 'squandered' his chance for unity
May 1, 2026
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2:15Now PlayingDave Chappelle: Trump 'squandered' his chance for unity
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as posted by the channelComedian Dave Chappelle says President Donald Trump has "squandered" his opportunity to unify the country.
"The presidency is no place for a petty person," he told PBS News' Amna Nawaz. "Personally, I would say that, you know, anyone in any type of leadership position, or even like a nightclub comedian like me, we have to suffer slights and injuries. We have to kind of just let some things go."
Chappelle reflected on his "Saturday Night Live" monologue in January 2025, shortly before Trump's inauguration. Chappelle spoke directly to the camera, telling Trump that "the whole world is counting on you."
"Being a president seems like an opportunity to be a very unifying force," he later added. "And I feel like perhaps he squandered that opportunity, to put it lightly."
Chappelle spoke with Amna Nawaz for PBS News' podcast, "Settle In." He discussed free speech, the importance of good journalism, his support of public media and why he doesn't regret his decision to perform in Saudi Arabia last year.
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