In a recent episode of *Late Night with Seth Meyers*, the host took aim at Donald Trump’s latest political antics, including his controversial proposal for hefty tariffs on Canadian hockey sticks and his ongoing assertions about the 2020 election. Meyers’ sharp wit highlighted Trump’s plummeting approval ratings, making for an engaging and incisive critique that resonated with viewers.
Tariffs on Canadian Imports: A Disgraceful Move
Trump’s announcement of potential tariffs reaching up to 50% on various Canadian products, notably hockey sticks, has raised eyebrows and ire alike. Meyers didn’t hold back, quipping, “You might as well slap a tariff on Molson, maple syrup, and the concept of apologising.” The host portrayed this move as not just economically misguided, but also as a personal affront to Canada—a country known for its polite culture and love for hockey, a sport that has become synonymous with Canadian identity.
The implications of these tariffs extend beyond mere financial strain; they signal a troubling trend of protectionism that could harm longstanding international relationships. Meyers further illustrated the absurdity of the situation by likening it to Canada imposing tariffs on quintessentially American customs, such as “gambling on crypto while you sit on the toilet because you made the mistake of thinking it was safe to eat lettuce from Taco Bell.”
Approval Ratings: The Lowest in Recent History
Meyers delved into Trump’s dismal approval ratings, which, according to recent polls, are reportedly worse than those of George W. Bush during the height of the Iraq War. The host remarked, “Trump is doing worse than Bush during the Iraq war – and remember, Bush had a pair of shoes thrown at him,” highlighting the absurdity of Trump’s political misfortunes.
This dramatic decline in support is not limited to party lines; even independents are reportedly turning away from the former president. Meyers pointed out that Trump’s approval among this demographic is lower than Richard Nixon’s during the Watergate scandal, a fact that he found particularly alarming. “Quite troubling? I would say that’s a real understatement,” he exclaimed, using graphic medical imagery to underscore the severity of the situation.
Unfounded Claims and Voting Restrictions
In addition to the tariffs, Meyers scrutinised Trump’s baseless claims that China had illegally acquired US voter files, a narrative that Trump insists dates back to the 2020 election. The late-night host sarcastically suggested, “Man, whoever was president back then must feel like an idiot right now,” before questioning the credibility of Trump’s assertions.
Meyers also tackled Trump’s push for new voter identification laws that would require individuals to present a passport or birth certificate at polling stations, a move critics argue would disenfranchise millions of eligible voters. “Who the hell knows where their birth certificate is?” he asked, echoing the frustration many feel about the accessibility of voting.
The Broader Context
Meyers’ commentary serves as a reminder of the shifting political landscape in the United States. As Trump continues to cling to his narrative of a rigged election while proposing policies that alienate key allies, his relevance may be increasingly called into question. The host’s blend of humour and sharp critique underscores the absurdity of the former president’s current trajectory.
Why it Matters
Meyers’ take on Trump’s recent moves illustrates a pivotal moment in American politics, one where the former president’s actions could have far-reaching consequences for international relations and domestic policies. As he pushes for tariffs that insult allies and advocates for restrictive voting laws that threaten democratic access, the implications extend beyond simple comedy. This moment reflects a broader struggle for the soul of American democracy, one that will resonate in the years to come as citizens grapple with the challenges of governance and representation.
