The Daily Show with Jon Stewart Season 13 Episode 56 Former President Jimmy Carter

Former President Jimmy Carter was the featured guest on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart in season 13, episode 56.

In this interview, Stewart sat down with the 39th President of the United States to discuss Carter's new book, "Beyond the White House," which chronicles his work and experiences after leaving the Oval Office.

Stewart began by asking Carter about his decision to continue working after leaving the presidency, noting that many former chief executives choose to retire. Carter responded that he saw his post-presidency as an opportunity to have a greater impact on issues he cared about, and that he took inspiration from other former presidents who had done the same, such as John Quincy Adams and Herbert Hoover.

The conversation then turned to specific issues that Carter has been involved in since leaving office. Stewart asked Carter about his work promoting democracy and human rights through the Carter Center, which he founded in 1982. Carter discussed how the Center has worked to monitor elections and promote peaceful transitions of power in countries around the world, as well as the Center's efforts to combat disease and promote access to healthcare.

Stewart also asked Carter about his views on the current state of American politics. Carter expressed his concern about the increasing influence of money in politics, and criticized the Supreme Court's Citizens United decision, which he said has allowed wealthy individuals and corporations to spend unlimited amounts of money to influence elections. He also expressed his disappointment with the current polarization and dysfunction in Congress, and called for greater civility and cooperation between Republicans and Democrats.

Throughout the interview, Carter struck a thoughtful and optimistic tone, emphasizing the importance of working towards a better future for all people. He emphasized the need for leaders to put aside partisan differences and work together on issues like climate change, poverty, and human rights.

Stewart and Carter also shared several lighthearted moments during the interview. At one point, Stewart asked about Carter's famous penchant for wearing cardigans, and joked about how they were "making a comeback." Carter responded with a smile, "Well, they never went out of style."

Overall, the interview offered a fascinating glimpse into the life and work of one of America's most distinguished and thoughtful former presidents. Carter's commitment to promoting democracy, human rights, and social justice was on full display, as was his enduring optimism about the future of our country and our world.