The Daily Show with Jon Stewart Season 13 Episode 76

The Daily Show with Jon Stewart Season 13 Episode 76 Ralph Reed

  • June 10, 2008
  • 6.1  (18)

In season 13, episode 76 of The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, the focus is on Ralph Reed, the former head of the Christian Coalition. Reed made headlines for his involvement in the Jack Abramoff lobbying scandal, and Stewart and his team are eager to dive into this controversial figure.

The episode begins with a comical sketch about the Vatican's new dress code, which requires all priests to wear brightly-colored robes and hats. Stewart then leads into the first segment, which is a satirical news report about a proposed "wall of shame" for politicians caught in scandals. The segment features correspondent Samantha Bee at the proposed site of the wall, poking fun at the various politicians who might end up on it.

Next up is an interview with James Carville, political consultant and pundit. Stewart and Carville discuss the 2008 presidential election, as well as the banking crisis and the bailout. Carville is his usual animated self, and there are plenty of laughs to be had as the two discuss some of the more absurd aspects of politics.

The highlight of the episode, however, is the segment on Ralph Reed. Stewart introduces it by discussing the Abramoff scandal and the role that Reed played in it. He notes that Reed was never actually charged with a crime, but that his involvement in the scandal did cause him some political problems.

The segment then features a compilation of news clips and interviews with Reed, in which he denies any wrongdoing and tries to distance himself from the scandal. Stewart and his correspondents are quick to point out the various inconsistencies in Reed's story, and to mock his attempts to deflect blame.

At one point, correspondent Wyatt Cenac stands outside of Reed's office with a bullhorn, demanding answers. Another segment features correspondent Jason Jones interviewing voters in a conservative southern state about their thoughts on Reed and the scandal. The segment is hilarious, with Jones getting some truly absurd responses.

Stewart himself then sits down with Reed for an interview. The interview is tense and uncomfortable at times, with Stewart confronting Reed about his involvement in the scandal and questioning his character. Reed is clearly on the defensive, but he holds his own and tries to explain his side of the story.

Overall, the episode is another great example of The Daily Show's ability to mix comedy and social commentary. The segments are smart and insightful, and the correspondents bring a great energy and humor to each one. And while the interview with Reed might not be the funniest or most entertaining part of the episode, it's certainly the most fascinating, and it shows just how serious Stewart and his team are when it comes to holding politicians accountable.

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Description
  • First Aired
    June 10, 2008
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    6.1  (18)