The Daily Show with Jon Stewart Season 13 Episode 59 Howard Dean
- May 1, 2008
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5.4 (10)
The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, season 13 episode 59, features former governor of Vermont and former presidential candidate Howard Dean as its guest. The episode kicks off with a comedic take on the news of the day, including an examination of President George W. Bush's falling approval ratings and the ongoing controversy surrounding immigration reform.
Stewart then brings out Dean for an in-depth discussion about his failed presidential bid in the 2004 election. Despite being an early frontrunner and receiving widespread support from young, progressive voters, Dean's campaign faltered after a high-profile gaffe during the Iowa caucuses. Stewart and Dean dissect the events leading up to the gaffe, with Dean admitting that he was fatigued and frustrated at the time and that his infamous scream was simply an attempt to rally his supporters.
The conversation then shifts to the current political climate and the state of the Democratic party. Dean expresses disappointment with the direction that his party has taken in recent years, citing a lack of cohesive messaging and a failure to connect with voters in rural areas. He also takes a few jabs at the Republican party and President Bush, calling the latter "the most incompetent president in the history of the United States."
Stewart and Dean then delve into the topic of healthcare reform, an issue that has long been a passion for the former governor. Dean shares his thoughts on the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which had been signed into law just a few months prior, and expresses optimism about its potential to provide much-needed healthcare coverage to millions of Americans. However, he also acknowledges that the law is far from perfect and that there is still much work to be done in order to improve the country's healthcare system.
The episode ends with a lighthearted round of "Questions Without Answers," in which Stewart poses a series of existential questions to Dean, such as "If you could have any superpower, what would it be?" and "If you could go back in time and give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?" Dean gamely answers each question, injecting some humor and levity into the conversation.
Overall, The Daily Show with Jon Stewart season 13 episode 59 offers a insightful and engaging discussion between two political heavyweights. Dean's candor and humor make for a compelling interview, and Stewart's sharp wit and incisive commentary help to frame the conversation in a larger political context. The episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of politics and humor.