Stephen Colbert Deconstructs Trump’s Recent Pharmaceutical Discussion on ’The Late Show’
NEW YORK – Stephen Colbert dissected former President Donald Trump’s recent meeting with pharmaceutical industry executives, focusing on the discussion surrounding weight loss drugs, during Monday night’s episode of “The Late Show.” Colbert highlighted the perceived incongruity of Trump, who has frequently criticized pharmaceutical companies, now seemingly embracing medications like Ozempic and Wegovy.
the meeting, held November 6, 2025, at Trump national Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey, brought together CEOs from major pharmaceutical firms including Johnson & Johnson, Novo Nordisk, and Eli Lilly. While the stated purpose was to discuss lowering drug prices and fostering innovation, Colbert suggested the conversation quickly pivoted to Trump’s personal interest in weight loss solutions. The event occurs as Trump faces ongoing scrutiny regarding his health and physical appearance, particularly as he campaigns for a return to the presidency. The implications of this meeting extend beyond Trump’s personal health, potentially influencing pharmaceutical policy and public perception of drug pricing.
Colbert played a clip of Trump stating, “We’re going to have a lot of very good things happening with the pharmaceutical companies,” then quipped, “Oh, good. Because nothing says ‘lowering drug prices’ like a private meeting with the people who raise drug prices.” He further mocked the situation, suggesting Trump’s sudden interest in the industry stemmed from a desire to utilize their products.
“He’s suddenly best friends with Big Pharma? That’s like Dracula endorsing a blood bank,” Colbert joked. He then presented a mock pharmaceutical advertisement featuring Trump, promising “tremendous” weight loss results.
Colbert also pointed out the irony of Trump’s past criticisms of pharmaceutical companies, particularly his accusations of price gouging.”remember when he was railing against pharmaceutical companies for ripping people off? Now he’s asking them how to get a smaller waistline,” Colbert said.
The segment concluded with colbert speculating on the potential political ramifications of the meeting, suggesting it could further erode trust in Trump’s promises to lower drug costs for all Americans. He emphasized the importance of scrutinizing the motivations behind the meeting and the potential impact on healthcare policy.