In a recent episode of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, host Stephen Colbert delved into the ongoing border crisis and the politics surrounding it. Colbert began by acknowledging that regardless of one’s stance on immigration, it is undeniable that there has been a border crisis for decades.
Colbert highlighted how Republicans have been pressuring President Biden to take tougher action on the border, even resorting to holding Ukraine aid hostage in exchange for a new border wall. Oklahoma Senator James L. Langford spearheaded a bipartisan border bill and, after negotiations with Democrats, successfully reached a deal. However, the GOP backed out of the deal, leaving Langford caught in the crossfire.
The reason behind Republicans’ sudden change of heart, according to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, is that former President Trump wanted to campaign on immigration. Taking away the immigration issue would mean losing a key talking point for the GOP.
Colbert humorously highlighted how Langford was recently censured by the Oklahoma Republican Party for his role in the border negotiations, despite doing what the Republicans asked of him. The Late Show host quipped about Langford’s backlash, mentioning the erotic thriller “50 Shades of Bangs,” referring to the senator’s iconic hairstyle.
Switching gears, Colbert turned to the situation in Texas, where Governor Greg Abbott has implemented an anti-immigration crackdown. Abbott’s measures, such as installing razor wire and circular saw blades along the border, have sparked controversy. The federal government has opposed Abbott’s actions, arguing that they hinder border patrol agents’ ability to provide assistance to migrants.
Even after the Supreme Court ruled against Texas in a 5-4 decision, Abbott continues to construct barriers along the border, disregarding the court’s ruling. He justifies his actions by claiming that the Biden administration has broken the compact between the United States and the states, referring to an outdated theory called nullification.
Colbert amusingly drew historical parallels to nullification, a theory championed by notorious racist and former vice president, John C. Calhoun. He highlighted that President Andrew Jackson threatened to invade South Carolina when the state attempted to nullify a tariff. Colbert humorously mentioned Trump’s lack of original ideas, drawing comparisons to Calhoun’s opposition to the tariff.
Taking a more serious tone, Colbert pointed out that some individuals, including QAnon followers and anti-vaxxers, have organized a “Take Our Country Back” convoy to Texas. The convoy, which initially expected 700,000 participants, has dwindled to just a few dozen predominantly elderly men. Colbert expressed his hope that the situation remains peaceful, as it could potentially spark a civil war.
As the segment concluded, Colbert teased upcoming guests Emma Stone and DNC chair Jamie Harrison. The episode promises to delve into other engaging topics, ensuring viewers have a night filled with entertaining discussions.
Overall, Colbert’s coverage of the border crisis and its political implications provided both humor and insights into the current state of affairs. The Late Show continues to offer a lively and entertaining take on trending topics.
