The Daily Show with Jon Stewart Season 14 Episode 67 Lisa P. Jackson

As the 67th episode of the 14th season of The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, the focus falls on Lisa P. Jackson, the former administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In her role, Jackson oversees the agency's efforts to protect public health and the environment, and she has developed a reputation as a champion for clean air and water.

The episode kicks off with Stewart introducing Jackson, hailing her as an "environmental badass." They dive into a discussion about her tenure at the EPA, which took place from 2009 to 2013. Jackson recounts some of her biggest challenges at the EPA, which she describes as "an agency that is incredibly committed, but also incredibly underfunded and understaffed."

Jackson explains that during her time at the EPA, the agency focused on a number of key initiatives. One of the most significant was the effort to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from power plants, which she says was "one of the most debated and contentious issues" of her tenure. She also talks about the EPA's work to regulate toxic chemicals like mercury and arsenic, and to protect wetlands and other critical habitats.

Stewart and Jackson delve into some of the political challenges that the EPA faces, particularly from opponents who see the agency as hindering business and economic growth. Jackson acknowledges that there are "real trade-offs" involved in regulating businesses and industries, but argues that the EPA's work is crucial for protecting public health and the environment.

The conversation turns to climate change, which Jackson describes as "one of the most urgent and complex problems facing the planet." She talks about the Obama administration's efforts to address climate change, including new regulations on power plants and efforts to promote renewable energy. She also notes the challenges that lie ahead, particularly given the current political climate in the United States.

Throughout the interview, Stewart and Jackson share a rapport that is equal parts serious and lighthearted. They joke about the challenges of regulating environmental issues, and Stewart even offers up a mock apology from the "men" responsible for polluting the planet.

In addition to the interview with Jackson, the episode includes several other segments that touch on environmental issues. One segment looks at the problem of plastic pollution in the world's oceans, while another takes a satirical look at the issue of "fracking" for natural gas.

Overall, the episode provides an insightful and engaging look at environmental issues and the role of the EPA in regulating them. While the topic can be complex and often divisive, Stewart and Jackson manage to make it both informative and entertaining. For anyone interested in environmental policy or the workings of government agencies, this episode is definitely worth a watch.