Ep 15. June 14, 2020

Last Week Tonight with John Oliver season 7 episode 15, which aired on June 14, 2020, tackled some of the most pressing issues facing America today. As always, the show used humor to explore complex topics in an approachable way, while also addressing the gravity of the situation.

One of the main topics discussed in this episode was the ongoing protests sparked by the killing of George Floyd by a white police officer. Oliver delved into the history of police brutality and systemic racism in the United States, highlighting how black people are more likely to die at the hands of the police than their white counterparts.

Oliver also focused on the role of police unions in perpetuating a culture of impunity and shielding officers from accountability. He compared police unions to the mafia, citing numerous instances where they have protected officers who engaged in misconduct or excessive use of force.

The episode also addressed the Trump administration's response to the protests, which included the deployment of military force against peaceful protesters in Washington DC. Oliver criticized Trump for his "dominance politics," which he argued only exacerbate divides and undermine democracy.

Another segment of the show examined the impact of COVID-19 on the US economy. Oliver discussed the uneven distribution of the economic fallout on low-wage workers and communities of color, who are more likely to be employed in industries that have been hit hardest by the pandemic.

In addition, Oliver highlighted how the government's response to the crisis has been insufficient, pointing out that other countries have provided more robust support to their citizens. He also noted the absurdity of companies receiving billions in bailouts while regular Americans struggle to make ends meet.

Finally, the episode closed with an uplifting story about the recent electoral victories of progressive candidates, including Jamaal Bowman and Cori Bush. Oliver praised these candidates for their commitment to progressive values and willingness to challenge the status quo, expressing hope that they will help bring about meaningful change.

Overall, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver season 7 episode 15 provided a deep dive into some of the most pressing issues facing America today. The show's signature blend of humor and hard-hitting analysis made complex topics accessible, while also highlighting the urgency of the situation.