Late-night host Stephen Colbert takes aim at the recent events on Capitol Hill, where House Republicans have selected Louisiana Representative Mike Johnson as the new Speaker of the House. Colbert critiqued the decision-making process of the Republicans. He compared the new Speaker to Ronald Reagan and tackled issues ranging from LGBTQ+ rights to gun control.
Republicans Reach Into a Bag of Randos
Republicans recently made a surprising choice for Speaker of the House, pulling out what Colbert calls a “shiny new” pick. Louisiana Representative Mike Johnson, who until recently flew under the radar, is now at the forefront. This sparked Colbert’s sharp commentary on the unexpected selection.
The Very Generic Mike Johnson
Colbert then poked fun at the new Speaker’s name, suggesting that Mike Johnson is such a common name that any other Mike Johnson might be just as qualified to lead the House. Representative Pat Fallon has compared Johnson to Ronald Reagan. However, Colbert twists this comparison to focus on height rather than presidential power.
Matt Gaetz’s Bayou Hours
During the quest for the Speaker’s chair, Matt Gaetz’s support for Rep. Kevin McCarthy didn’t go unnoticed by Stephen Colbert. Gaetz, who mentioned “Bayou hours” in praise of McCarthy’s commitment and work ethic, became the butt of the joke as Colbert twisted the phrase into a laughable moment.
A Warm Body for Speaker
Colbert also satirized Indiana Senator Todd Young’s lackadaisical comment that all the House needed was a “warm body” to fill the position. Colbert seized this phrase, comparing the frantic search to someone seeking a companion in the waning hours of a night out. In doing so, he highlighted the seemingly low standards for Speaker selection.
Johnson’s Job Begins Now
Then, Colbert referenced Senator John Kennedy’s call for across-the-aisle cooperation, stating, “Now that he’s got the job, Johnson has to actually do the job. As John Kennedy put it, “the real work begins now.” To pass anything, you have to go get Democratic votes. You don’t have to be Einstein’s cousin to figure that out. Yeah, we all know the true genius was Einstein’s cousin.”
Johnson’s Anti-LGBTQ+ Stance
Stephen Colbert, in his critique of political figures, did not shy away from addressing Speaker McCarthy’s anti-LGBTQ+ positions. Colbert satirically took on Johnson’s apocalyptic view of same-sex marriage, saying, “Homosexual marriage is the dark harbinger of chaos and sexual anarchy that could doom even the strongest republic if you’re doing it right!”
Clarence Thomas’s Scandals
Colbert then discussed the controversies surrounding Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. He said, “Now we’ve learned, according to a new Senate report, Thomas failed to fully repay a $267,000 loan for a luxury RV he received from a longtime friend.” He mocked the apparent disregard for repayment, “It was a loan that I would never have to pay.”
Mass Shooting in Leon, Maine
Switching to a tone of grave concern, Colbert reports, “Last night there was another horrific mass shooting in America, this time in Leon, Maine, where 18 people were killed and more than a dozen injured.” He acknowledged the darkness shrouding such events, “This is unfathomable darkness, and there are no words to describe the sickening grief and horror.”
The Gun and Mental Health Debate
Colbert steered the conversation to the debate after such tragedies, asserting, “Now we know the arguments – some people are going to say this is a mental health issue, others are going to say it’s a gun issue. But there’s no reason it can’t be both.” He argued for a more nuanced conversation that understands the complexity of gun violence.
A Human Issue, Not Partisan
Making a poignant plea, Colbert stressed, “Humans are dying. This is a human issue.” He urges Americans to set aside partisanship, “There’s no reason for this to be a partisan issue.” He calls for collective accountability on gun violence and its resolutions, saying, “You can make this the issue you vote on.”
Universal Background Checks
Highlighting a striking consensus among Americans, Colbert emphasized, “Because 86% of your fellow Americans want universal background checks before any gun purchase.” He questioned the gap between public will and political action, “A majority of your fellow Americans want a ban on assault-style weapons.”
Assault Weapon Ban Support
Additionally, Colbert noted the public’s stance on assault weapons. He stressed that “More than 80% of Americans want Congress to do something, anything to prevent mass shootings.” He then challenged the hesitation in political circles to align with the clear public sentiment, arguing there were clear calls for action.
Congressional Inaction
Colbert’s frustration with the status quo was evident. He called out Congressional inaction, saying, “Ask your representative, ‘What will you do?’ And if they don’t have an answer immediately at hand, that means they’ve never really given it any serious thought.” He told lawmakers to move beyond empty statements and take real action to prevent further tragedies.
The Question of Legislation Versus Violence Inherent in Society
In response to Colbert’s arguments, some critics argued that legislating against violence is futile. One user said, “Violence will always be part of who we are as humans.” They propose that if more people were armed, it would stop would-be shooters, quickly neutralizing threats. However, others disagreed with this view.
The Comparative Incidence of Mass Shootings
The U.S. faces scrutiny for its high rate of mass shootings compared to other nations. Commentators point out that “thoughts and prayers haven’t worked yet,” urging a reevaluation of how these tragedies are addressed. Others raised questions about what makes the U.S. distinct in this crisis and why current methods are no longer adequate.
Constitutionality and the Second Amendment
Other users questioned the sanctity of the Second Amendment and argued it was time for reform. One user said, “People look at the Constitution as something handed down by God himself. No. 2A is man-made, and it was written poorly and at a time when nothing like this latest tragedy was envisioned. Time for a change.”
Mental Health and Gun Ownership
Some users were confused over the ease with which individuals with mental health issues can acquire firearms. One critic asked, “Someone with mental health problems can still buy guns? Who are the adults in this room? Why was this allowed? Who thinks this is a good idea? Stop the mentally ill from purchasing guns now!”
Hyperbolic Rhetoric and Political Divides
The discussion around gun control often includes extreme statements and divisive language. Claims like “THE ONLY REASON WE HAVE MASS SHOOTINGS IS BECAUSE SOME POLITICIANS LOVE THEIR AR-15s” reflect the heated emotions that cloud the conversation. This user continued, The mental health argument DOESN’T HOLD UP TO SCRUTINY!”
The Role of Leadership in Legislative Solutions
Other users identified the responsibility of lawmakers, especially those in positions of power such as Speaker Johnson. One user insisted, “The solutions come from Congress, and the Speaker is in the driver’s seat for legislation.” There is an urgent plea for leadership to step up and enact measures to prevent future tragedies.
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