Comedian and political commentator Jon Stewart unleashed a scathing critique of conservative double standards during his recent podcast episode, targeting right-wing critics who overlook former President Donald Trump's cozy relationship with Saudi royalty.
Stewart's Fiery Podcast Commentary
During Thursday's episode of his "Weekly Show" podcast, Stewart addressed the controversy surrounding CEOs who attended a White House dinner with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The Saudi government maintains what Stewart described as an "abysmal human rights record."
"Are people surprised by it?" Stewart questioned incredulously. "Are people — 'I cannot believe that the head of Apple ― all the different — would sit at a state dinner with the guy who is funneling billions and billions of dollars into their businesses?'"
Conservative Double Standards Exposed
Stewart highlighted the stark contrast in conservative reactions between Trump's relationships with Saudis and the criticism directed at New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani. Mamdani faced intense backlash for taking a picture with Imam Siraj Wahhaj, who was suspected as a co-conspirator in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing but never charged.
Some of Mamdani's critics accused him of siding with terrorists and celebrating violence, including the September 11, 2001 attacks. Stewart, a staunch advocate for 9/11 first responders, also addressed those who criticized his "Daily Show" interview with the Democratic socialist.
Imitating his detractors, Stewart said: "'He's talking pleasantly with Mamdani, you know, this is a guy — has he forgotten 9/11?' First of all, fuck you! Fuck you to the highest order of fucking you that you can be fucked."
Trump's Saudi Business Connections
Stewart reminded listeners about Trump's direct business dealings with Saudi interests, specifically mentioning how Trump hosted LIV Golf tournaments at his courses, including at his Bedminster, New Jersey club in 2022. The golf tour is financed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund.
"Your guy hosted a LIV Golf tournament in the shadow of the towers with the Saudis and palled around with them," Stewart emphasized. "So again, let me repeat myself, fuck you!"
The comedian's passionate commentary underscored what he sees as blatant hypocrisy in how conservative critics apply different standards to Trump's relationships with Saudi leadership compared to their treatment of progressive figures.
