Jon Stewart Critiques Democrats for Ending Shutdown Without Gains

Jon Stewart has expressed his outrage towards the Democratic Party for what he perceives as a significant misstep in their handling of the recent government shutdown. Following a prolonged closure lasting 41 days, a faction of Democratic Senators chose to cross party lines to end the impasse, doing so without securing any assurances from Republicans regarding the extension of the Affordable Care Act subsidies that Democrats have been advocating for.

During a monologue on October 16, 2023, Stewart did not hold back his frustration, stating, “I can’t f—ing believe it! They f—ing caved on the shutdown.” He emphasized the timing of the decision, noting it came less than a week after significant Democratic victories in key elections across New Jersey, Virginia, and New York. “You had the wind at your back,” Stewart remarked, referring to the party’s recent electoral successes.

Stewart specifically criticized Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, suggesting that the eight Democratic Senators who voted to end the shutdown were either not facing re-election in 2026 or were part of a strategy orchestrated by Schumer to appease Republicans while shielding vulnerable Democrats, himself included. The group of eight included Senators Dick Durbin, Maggie Hassan, Tim Kaine, Jeanne Shaheen, Catherine Cortez Masto, John Fetterman, and Jacky Rosen, along with Independent Senator Angus King, who caucuses with Democrats.

Despite Schumer voting against the legislation, calls for his resignation are growing as internal party tensions escalate. Stewart characterized the dynamics as a “Democratic civil war” and suggested that Schumer’s leadership is increasingly in jeopardy. He remarked, “This is what the Democrats have squandered… They squandered their leverage, sapped their voters’ enthusiasm, and snatched defeat from the jaws of victory.”

In a moment of levity, Stewart drew a parallel between the Democrats’ handling of the shutdown and the poor performance of the New York Giants, who have struggled this season. He aired a news clip announcing the firing of Giants’ head coach Brian Daboll, comparing the team’s inability to maintain leads to the Democratic Party’s failure to capitalize on its recent electoral momentum. The audience responded enthusiastically to his comparisons, indicating a shared sentiment that Schumer’s leadership may need reconsideration.

Stewart concluded his commentary with a touch of humor, remarking, “So you’re saying there’s a chance?” This line resonated with the audience, underscoring the prevailing sentiment among some Democrats that a change in leadership may be necessary to reclaim the party’s momentum and public trust.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, the implications of this shutdown and the Democratic response will likely be a topic of contention going forward. The party’s ability to navigate these challenges will be crucial in maintaining its position in future elections.