Jon Stewart goes OFF on Congress | LiveNOW from FOX

Summary

This powerful speech criticizes Congress for its apathy towards the 9/11 first responders seeking healthcare benefits. The speaker expresses outrage at the near-empty Congress, contrasting it with the room filled with ailing heroes who answered the call on 9/11. He condemns the disrespect shown to these brave individuals who risked their lives, now battling illnesses from the toxic air at Ground Zero. The speech calls out the hypocrisy of honoring 9/11 heroes while denying them the care they desperately need, urging Congress to act with the same courage and resolve displayed by these first responders.

Takeaways

• 😡 The speaker expresses anger and frustration at the lack of attendance and support from Congress for 9/11 first responders seeking healthcare benefits.
• 🏥 Many 9/11 first responders are sick and dying, yet Congress has been slow to provide adequate healthcare coverage and compensation.
• 🇺🇸 The heroic actions of first responders on 9/11 represented the best of America and helped the nation heal, but they are now being disrespected.
• ⌚ Delays in providing healthcare are costing first responders their most valuable resource: time.
• 👥 The roles should be reversed - first responders should be on stage questioning Congress about the difficulties in obtaining benefits.
• 💸 The idea that funding cannot be provided because of uncertainties in the future is unacceptable when lives are at stake.
• 🌎 This is not just a New York issue; the 9/11 attacks and response were an American tragedy and victory.
• 🚫 The speaker condemns the notion of tying healthcare benefits to unrelated legislative issues as political bargaining chips.
• 👏 The speaker expresses gratitude for advocates like John Feal and Ray Pfeifer who continue fighting for 9/11 first responders.
• 😞 The lack of unanimous support from Congress for this issue is incomprehensible and disheartening.

Q & A

What is the main issue addressed in the speech?

The main issue addressed is the difficulty and delay in obtaining healthcare and benefits for 9/11 first responders.

Why does the speaker describe the room as a metaphor?

The room is described as a metaphor to illustrate the contrast between the numerous 9/11 first responders present and the almost empty Congress, highlighting the lack of attention and importance given to the responders' needs.

What emotions does the speaker express in the speech?

The speaker expresses anger, frustration, and disappointment at the Congress's indifference and failure to act swiftly and adequately to support the 9/11 first responders.

Why does the speaker mention the FDNY's response time on 9/11?

The speaker mentions the FDNY's response time to emphasize the immediate and selfless action of the first responders, contrasting it with the slow and inadequate response to their needs years later.

What does Ray Pfeiffer symbolize in the speech?

Ray Pfeiffer symbolizes the resilience and determination of the 9/11 first responders, continuing to fight for their rights and benefits despite his severe health issues.

What is the significance of the 'empty chairs' mentioned in the speech?

The empty chairs represent the absent Congress members, highlighting their neglect and lack of responsibility towards the 9/11 first responders who need their support.

What is the main criticism the speaker has towards Congress?

The main criticism is Congress's apathy and failure to prioritize and resolve the health and financial issues faced by 9/11 first responders, viewing their struggles as a lesser priority.

Why does the speaker insist that the hearing should be 'flipped'?

The speaker believes that the 9/11 first responders should be the ones asking questions on the stage, and Congress should be accountable for their actions and inactions, reversing the roles to emphasize the need for congressional responsibility.

What does the speaker say about the nature of the disaster on 9/11 compared to natural disasters?

The speaker emphasizes that 9/11 was a man-made terrorist attack, not a natural disaster like a hurricane or tornado, highlighting its unique impact and the specific responsibility of the government to address its aftermath.

What is the speaker's stance on the bureaucratic treatment of 9/11 first responders' benefits?

The speaker criticizes the bureaucratic delays and political maneuvering that hinder the provision of adequate benefits to the first responders, insisting on immediate and decisive action to rectify their situation.