Ep 9. Episode 33

Last Week Tonight with John Oliver season 2 episode 9, titled "Episode 33", is another hard-hitting episode of the popular news satire series that tackles a variety of current events and political issues. Host John Oliver presents his unique perspective on timely topics and current events, with a mix of humor, wit, and incisive commentary.

The episode begins with a look at the issue of police militarization, which is a hotly debated topic in the wake of the unrest in Ferguson, Missouri. Oliver examines the trend of local police departments acquiring military-grade equipment and asks whether this is a necessary step for law enforcement or a dangerous escalation of police power. He examines the origins of the program that has allowed police departments to receive surplus military hardware from the federal government, and he interviews an expert on police tactics to get more insight into the issue.

From there, the show moves on to a discussion of the wage gap between men and women. Oliver points out that, despite progress in many areas, women still earn less money than men for doing the same job. He examines some of the economic factors that contribute to this inequality, including discrimination, the gendered division of labor, and the fact that women are often forced to make career choices that prioritize caregiving over earning power. Oliver also takes a humorous look at some of the chauvinistic responses to the issue from male pundits and politicians.

Next, the show takes a more lighthearted turn with a segment on the fact that Daylight Saving Time is still a thing. Oliver goes on a comedic rant about the practice, pointing out that it doesn't actually save energy and may even be harmful to public health. He pokes fun at the confusion surrounding the annual time change, and he proposes some amusing alternatives to the current system.

The episode then returns to more serious topics with a look at the issue of national debt. Oliver points out that, despite the rhetoric of politicians on both sides of the aisle, the debt is not an immediate crisis that requires urgent action. However, he notes that the debt is still an important issue that needs to be addressed in the long-term. He discusses the causes and consequences of the debt and offers some potential solutions for bringing it under control.

Finally, the show closes out with a segment on the Supreme Court case of Elonis v. United States, which involves the question of what constitutes a true threat on social media. Oliver examines the case and its implications for free speech online, as well as the fact that the Court has struggled to keep pace with evolving technology and communication methods. He offers some suggestions for how the Court could better address these issues in the future.

Overall, episode 9 of Last Week Tonight with John Oliver season 2 offers a diverse mix of topics and perspectives, combining humor and social commentary to create an engaging and thought-provoking hour of television. From police militarization and the wage gap to Daylight Saving Time and national debt, the episode covers a broad range of subjects with wit, intelligence, and incisive analysis. Whether you're a news junkie or just someone looking for a fresh take on the issues of the day, Last Week Tonight has something for everyone.