President Obama joined Jon Stewart on “The Daily Show” on Tuesday for one last appearance before Stewart leaves the show in August.
The two spoke at length about the Iran nuclear deal and Obama’s achievements while in office, and Stewart was able to work in a reference to Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump.
Obama explained to Stewart that the greatest lesson he has learned in office is that the government must get people engaged with the issues.
“I guarantee you, if people feel strongly about making sure that Iran doesn’t get a nuclear weapon without us going to war, and that is expressed to Congress, then people will believe in that. And the same is true on every single issue. If people are engaged, eventually the political system responds, despite the money, despite the lobbyists, it still responds,” Obama said.
“After seven years, is that the advice that you then bequeath to future president Trump?” Stewart asked in response.
“I’m sure the Republicans are enjoying Mr. Trump’s current dominance of their primary,” Obama replied.
Earlier in the show, Obama said he was in disbelief that Stewart was leaving “The Daily Show” before he leaves office.
“I’m issuing a new executive order — that Jon Stewart cannot leave the show. It’s being challenged in the courts,” Obama said.
“I have to say, for me this is a states’ rights issue,” Stewart joked in response.
Watch part of Stewart’s interview with Obama via Comedy Central:
Two very smart and intelligent guys.
The two people who have kept the world rational for the last seven years.
I know Jon has been around longer, but I honestly didn’t start watching him and acknowledging his impact on the political realm until Obama’s election.
Yes, I know - I don’t get out much.
This President’s centered demeanor – His quiet integrity and respect are somethings that the White House has not seen in a very long time –
The difference between the president’s demeanor in this interview and the Trump’s demeanor during his campaign are incredible.
We are fortunate that Mr. Obama was elected to the Presidency in 2008 and 2012.