Bill Maher: If critical race theory means 'separating 5-year-olds by race,' then 'I'm out'

Liberal talk show host Bill Maher expressed his disinterest in critical race theory, saying he was "out" if it meant segregating children by race.

During a panel discussion with Democratic Sen. Chris Coons of Delaware and Atlantic staff writer Caitlin Flanagan, Maher discussed the Virginia gubernatorial race and former Gov. Terry McAuliffe's comments regarding schools. In a slight aside, Maher mentioned critical race theory and its promotion.

Maher said he was "for it" if authors such as Toni Morrison were taught but not if it meant changing how teachers treated children.

"If that's what critical race theory means," Maher said. "If it means separating 5-year-olds by race and telling some, 'You're oppressors,' and the others, 'You're the oppressed,' and giving up on a colorblind society and resegregation and racism is the essence of America — then I'm out."