Ep 11. May 10, 2020

In this episode of Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, the host takes a deep dive into the world of meatpacking plants and how they have become the hotspots for COVID-19 outbreaks in the United States. Oliver discusses the consequences of the meat industry being declared an essential business, despite the hazardous conditions for workers and the lack of proper safety measures put in place.

Oliver highlights several meatpacking plants that have been at the center of COVID-19 outbreaks, including the Tyson plant in Waterloo, Iowa, where multiple workers have died from the virus. He also explores the impact that these outbreaks have on the surrounding communities, as many plants are located in rural areas where healthcare access is limited.

The episode also examines the role of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in protecting workers in these plants. Oliver discusses the weakened standards and lack of enforcement by OSHA, which has contributed to the hazardous working conditions in meatpacking plants.

As a solution, Oliver urges viewers to support workers in the meatpacking industry by advocating for better safety measures and working conditions. He also encourages viewers to consider reducing their meat consumption as a way to lessen the demand for these hazardous jobs.

In addition to the main segment, the episode also features a segment on how the US Postal Service is struggling financially and the potential consequences of its demise. Oliver calls on viewers to support the USPS by purchasing stamps and contacting their elected officials to demand its funding.

Overall, this episode of Last Week Tonight with John Oliver tackles important issues surrounding the meatpacking industry and worker safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the potential consequences of the USPS's financial struggles. Oliver's trademark humor and candidness provide a compelling and informative commentary on these pressing topics.