Nikki Glaser Expresses Concern Over Anti-Trump Jokes Impacting U.S. Re-entry

Stand-up comedian Nikki Glaser shared her apprehensions on Wednesday regarding the potential consequences of her anti-Trump jokes while performing abroad. She fears that these remarks could hinder her ability to return to the U.S.

In a recent interview with Time magazine, which celebrated its TIME100 list, Glaser opened up about her anxiety stemming from her comedic commentary in Canada. She has expressed concern that her jokes may lead to complications upon her return to the United States.

“Oh my God. What if what I said gets recorded and sent out? Maybe I could not be let back into the country,” Glaser conveyed to Time’s deputy editor Kelly Conniff.

Glaser’s Rise to Prominence

Recognized as one of Time’s most influential people of 2025, Glaser is not known for overly political humor, as she often seeks to avoid alienating segments of her audience. However, she did not shy away from heavily criticizing President Donald Trump during her stand-up performance in Canada.

“In Canada, it was fun. And I let it fly. It was really good,” she recounted. Yet, the comedian admitted to having second thoughts about whether sharing her anti-Trump material was wise.

Concerns Raised by Fellow Comedians

Glaser reflected on an unsettling incident involving a friend, fellow comedian Jena Friedman, who faced questioning upon re-entering the U.S. from Canada.

“I have a friend, Jena Friedman, who posted on Instagram about performing in Vancouver. When she returned, Customs asked her what she did. She said she was a comedian, and they inquired if she talked about politics and mocked the president,” Glaser shared.

Friedman, who has worked as a producer for Comedy Central’s The Daily Show, documented her experiences on social media. She revealed that upon her return to Los Angeles from Vancouver, a U.S. customs agent asked her about the nature of her comedy performances.

“Just a heads up to anyone traveling internationally right now, I was flying back into LA from Vancouver last night. The U.S. customs agent asked what I was in town for. After I said I was performing comedy, he asked, ‘Do you make fun of politicians?’” Friedman wrote on Instagram.

She further cautioned, “It was a brief exchange and I got through, but be careful out there. Know your rights and proceed with caution.”

The Weight of Comedic Expression

During her conversation with Time, Glaser emphasized that while Friedman was allowed to continue without issue, the questioning still left her feeling uneasy about her own material.

“They let her go, but they asked. I’m not trying to be an alarmist, but I definitely don’t think that I am immune to having some kind of backlash or that I could be put on some kind of list because of some story I reposted,” she stated. “Look at other places that have dictators. You’re not allowed to say bad things about them.”

Wider Implications for Artists and Comedians

Glaser’s concerns reflect a growing anxiety among artists and comedians regarding the state of free speech and political expression. With increasing scrutiny on material deemed politically sensitive, the landscape for performers is evolving.

Her remarks have sparked conversations regarding the implications of freedom of expression in artistic fields. Artists, regardless of their medium, often grapple with the balance between self-expression and the potential repercussions of their words.

This situation highlights the challenges entertainers face when navigating their craft within a politically charged environment. The fear of repercussion can influence not only the content of their performances but also their personal freedoms.

Navigating the Current Climate

It is essential for comedians and artists to be aware of the current climate surrounding political humor and expression. The ongoing dialogue surrounding comedy, politics, and personal safety continues to evolve, shaped by societal changes and audience reactions.

As performers, comedians like Glaser may feel compelled to self-censor or rethink their material, fearing the repercussions that could arise within an increasingly polarized landscape. This sentiment can stifle creativity and expression in a field that thrives on pushing boundaries and challenging norms.

The Future of Political Comedy

While Glaser navigates these challenges, her situation serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining open dialogue about free expression and the role of humor in society. Political comedy has long been a vehicle for social commentary and critique, pushing audiences to think critically about the world around them.

However, as fear of consequences grows, the future of political commentary in comedy may rest on the ability of artists to adapt and respond to changing circumstances. Comedians must consider the implications of their material while staying true to their art form and connecting with their audience.

Final Thoughts on Free Speech in Comedy

As Nikki Glaser’s experiences illustrate, the intersection of comedy and politics requires careful navigation. The ability to express oneself freely in art forms should not come at the cost of personal safety. The evolving landscape of social and political commentary in comedy poses significant questions for artists and audiences alike.

Ultimately, maintaining a vibrant and expressive comedic ecosystem demands awareness and resilience in the face of potential challenges. Artists must continue to push boundaries, cultivate their voices, and advocate for the freedom to speak truthfully and boldly. Only then can the essence of comedy, as a tool for commentary and connection, truly endure.