On a recent episode of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Emmy award-winning journalist George Stephanopoulos made an appearance to discuss the important issue of holding politicians accountable for election denial. Stephanopoulos, known for his work on This Week and Good Morning America, was greeted with applause from the audience as he sat down to chat with Colbert.
The conversation started off with Colbert reminiscing about one of the first things that sparked his interest in politics – the documentary War Room, featuring Stephanopoulos. The host expressed his excitement at having Stephanopoulos on the show and the journalist graciously accepted the warm welcome.
As the conversation ensued, Colbert delved into Stephanopoulos’ vast experience in politics, particularly his time working for Clinton and Gore in the White House. Stephanopoulos shared that every election is often touted as the most important one of our lifetimes, but this one feels particularly significant. He noted that never before in history has a former president and presidential candidate attempted to overturn an election and refused to accept the results.
Stephanopoulos emphasized the importance of the peaceful transfer of power, describing it as the bedrock of democracy. He expressed concern over the dangerous precedent set by a former president who lies about the election results and disseminates disinformation. He highlighted the influence this has on others, including enablers who now downplay the events of January 6th.
Colbert then questioned Stephanopoulos on how this challenging political climate impacts his interviews on This Week. Stephanopoulos revealed that he now has a new rule – the first questions he asks every guest are whether they accept the results of the last election and why they endorse someone who refuses to accept those results.
The discussion took an interesting turn as Colbert mentioned Stephanopoulos’ past interviews with Donald Trump, in which the journalist found himself sued for defamation. Stephanopoulos explained that during an interview with congresswoman Nancy Mace, he raised the issue of her supporting Trump, who had been found liable for rape in a civil case. Trump sued Stephanopoulos for using the word “rape,” despite a judge confirming its accuracy. Stephanopoulos filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit and remains committed to doing his job without fear.
Colbert also brought up Stephanopoulos’ interviews with Michael Cohen, Trump’s former lawyer who underwent a transformation in his views of the former president. Stephanopoulos recalled how Cohen had privately expressed his changing perspective before publicly speaking out. The journalist acknowledged the intensity of past encounters with Cohen, describing him as Trump’s “ultimate pitbull.” However, Stephanopoulos noted that Cohen’s complete conversion is evident, highlighting the significant shift in his loyalty.
The lively and informative conversation between Stephanopoulos and Colbert ended with the promise of more intriguing discussions to come. Stephanopoulos’s resilience in the face of legal challenges and commitment to holding politicians accountable served as a reminder of the vital role journalists play in our democracy.
As the audience bid farewell to Stephanopoulos, they were left with a sense of anticipation for future interviews and discussions on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. With Stephanopoulos at the helm, there is no doubt that enlightening conversations await viewers, keeping them engaged and informed.
Please note: The air date of this episode is not provided.
