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In a lively week on late-night television, hosts Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Kimmel, and Seth Meyers have dissected the latest political developments, including Bruce Springsteen’s scathing new song targeting ICE, Donald Trump’s waning popularity, and the premiere of Melania Trump’s documentary. Their commentary has provided both humour and sharp criticism of the current political climate.
Colbert on Springsteen and Trump’s Struggles
On *The Late Show*, Stephen Colbert tackled the fallout from Trump’s increasingly precarious standing, attributing it to the “brutality” of his administration’s policies. He noted that Trump’s declining approval ratings have left him feeling cornered, stating, “That’s the most dangerous place for him to be because if you startle him, he’ll inflate his neck pouch.” Colbert’s quip reflects the host’s characteristic blend of humour and pointed critique.
The discussion took a musical turn with the mention of Bruce Springsteen’s latest protest anthem, “Streets of Minneapolis.” Colbert praised the song for its “poignant and powerful” message, humorously lamenting, “Do you know how hard it is to rhyme with Minneapolis?” He highlighted that Springsteen’s work serves as a reminder of the urgency surrounding immigration issues, describing the artist as “as American as it gets.”
Colbert also addressed the controversial plan to dispatch ICE agents to the Winter Olympics in Milan. “The only ice I wanna see at the Winter Olympics is ice dancing,” he quipped, referencing the backlash from local lawmakers who are reportedly planning to deny entry to what he referred to as Trump’s “thugs.” He concluded with a cheeky jab, calling it “America’s greatest insult to Italy since Olive Garden’s steak gorgonzola alfredo.”
Kimmel’s Take on Melania and Celebrity Culture
Jimmy Kimmel also weighed in on the premiere of the Melania Trump documentary, which is reportedly set to earn the former First Lady a staggering $28 million from Amazon. Kimmel described the event as “deeply corrupt but also preposterous,” noting the eclectic mix of attendees, including rapper Nicki Minaj, whom he pointed out has her own history with undocumented immigration—a situation that starkly contrasts with ICE’s enforcement actions.
He took a comedic jab at the documentary’s hype, saying, “Not since *The Terminator* has there been this much excitement for a film about a European cyborg.” Kimmel’s comments reflect a broader critique of celebrity culture intertwined with political figures, especially in the context of the Trumps.
Amidst this lighthearted ribbing, Kimmel also addressed serious issues, such as the FBI’s recent raids on election offices in Georgia, which aim to bolster Trump’s unfounded allegations of voter fraud from the 2020 election. “The election in 2020 wasn’t rigged, but it’s about to be,” he remarked, highlighting concerns about the integrity of upcoming midterm elections.
Meyers on Trump and Omar’s Controversy
On *Late Night*, Seth Meyers focused on the recent turmoil involving Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, whose name has once again been thrust into the spotlight due to Trump’s incendiary remarks. Meyers pointed out Trump’s erratic social media activity, which included a bizarre post about Walmart closures that the company deemed false.
Trump’s unfounded claims regarding Omar’s wealth, which he exaggerated from $30 million to $45 million, were also discussed. Meyers remarked on the absurdity of Trump and his supporters’ worldview, stating, “Anything that doesn’t fit neatly within their preconceived worldview must be fake.” This comment underscores the ongoing divisiveness in American politics and the dangers of misinformation.
Why it Matters
The interplay between late-night comedy and current events serves as a critical lens through which audiences can understand the complexities of American political life. By combining humour with incisive commentary, these hosts not only entertain but also provoke thought about pressing social issues, from immigration reform to the integrity of elections. As they tackle the absurdities of the political landscape, they remind viewers that laughter can be a powerful tool for reflection and change.
