Yes, I admit it. I love the irreverent comedic stylings of both of these men. Apparently, the rest of America does too. There are few icons hotter than these two counter balanced political commentators. To deny their influence, is to live in a cave–they are everywhere.
Why We Love Jon Stewart
Ask yourself this question: What would it be like to interview key political figures where you don’t have to stick to the rules? Take for instance Jon Stewart’s interview with Terry McAuliffe–the campaign manager for the Clinton campaign. At that point in the game she clearly did not have enough delegates, we all knew it and we’re just waiting for her concession speech.
Most people would let Terry off the hook with his simple explanation of why Florida and Michigan should count. (Which by the way, he didn’t really explain.) Not Jon Stewart. Jon carefully points out that in fact the numbers indicate she will not win and then asks, “How do you do that? You’re so enthusiastic–even I want to believe you.” When he interviewed Hillary Clinton he asked her if being the first lady really counted as the much touted “experience” we keep hearing about.
Jon Stewart gets to make us laugh, but he also gets to ask hard questions that other political pundits won’t dare to ask.
Colbert and All That Truthiness
Stephen Colbert’s popularity is huge and studies have shown that his self proclaimed “Colbert bump” (the phenomenon of a candidate’s popularity rising after they’ve been on the show) is actually pretty accurate. The Colbert Report is a parody of the Bill O’Reilly show. While Colbert asks questions that are too ridiculous to be seen as serious. . .his effect is undeniable.
Colbert is hilarious because he has this knack for blurring reality while at the same time actually highlighting it. Appearing on his show comes with it’s own risks though. While Obama and Clinton both made at least short appearances, McCain has yet to stop by, preferring instead the Jon Stewart show.
Perhaps that’s because of the potentially embarassing side effects of an interview with Colbert. For example, in a sit down interview with Georgia congressmen Lynn Westmoreland (who is known for petitioning to have the Ten Commandments displayed in government buildings) Colbert asked Westmoreland to name the Ten Commandments. The Georgia congressman named two, getting one wrong–while Colbert patiently counted.
If you want a new, and interesting take on the all the political happenings–take a gander at these two shows. Their popularity is surging and their commentary is becoming more and more. . .well. . .regarded as truthiness.
See Also:
Celebrity Updates: Jon Stewart
Kimmel, Stewart and Colbert Returning with New Shows
Stephen Colbert is Hanging at the Smithsonian
Stephen Colbert–Public School Teacher’s Hero
Valorie Delp shares recipes and kitchen tips in the food blog, and also writes about politics and the occassional movie review. To read more articles by Valorie Delp, click here.
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