Ep 20. August 11, 2019

Last Week Tonight with John Oliver season 6 episode 20 aired on August 11, 2019, and offered a deep dive into the state of the US census. Oliver delves into the value of accurate census data, explains how the census is conducted, and highlights the barriers to an accurate count.

Oliver opens the show with a history lesson on the census, stressing the importance of accurate counts for political representation and the allocation of resources. The 2020 census is particularly significant because it will determine the number of seats each state has in the House of Representatives, as well as help distribute over $1.5 trillion dollars in federal funding over the next decade.

However, Oliver notes that there are significant obstacles to an accurate count, including distrust among immigrants and fear of the government, as well as underfunding and previously proposed additions of citizenship questions that may discourage participation. He notes that the current administration has made efforts to reduce funding for the census and suggests that these efforts may lead to significant undercounting, particularly among hard-to-reach populations.

To illustrate the value of an accurate census count, Oliver highlights several programs that rely on census data, including Head Start, Medicaid, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). He also interviews census workers and advocates, who express concerns about outreach and funding.

Oliver calls on viewers to participate in the census and notes that it is safe, secure, and critical for communities to participate. He encourages viewers to seek out information and resources to help increase participation, and emphasizes the importance of accurate data for political representation and the allocation of resources.

The episode ends with Oliver acknowledging the difficulty of conducting an accurate census, but insisting that it is necessary for a functioning democracy and fair allocation of resources. He suggests that, despite the challenges, efforts to increase participation must continue, and stresses the importance of accurate data in shaping policy decisions.

Overall, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver season 6 episode 20 offers a thoughtful exploration of the state of the US census, highlighting its importance and potential challenges. Oliver's analysis underscores the importance of accurate data and the need to address obstacles to participation in the census process. The show offers a compelling argument for viewers to engage with the census and emphasizes the critical role accurate census data plays in shaping political and social outcomes.