Colbert And Congress

Stephen Colbert testified before Congress. He was talking about "illegal immigration". He participated in the "Take Our Jobs" program, where people were offered the chance to take a farming job normally held by "illegal immigrants".

I don't see how working on a farm for a day makes him an expert on "illegal immigration". Watching his show, he was joking around and not working seriously.

It was obviously a publicity stunt, both for Steven Colbert and for Congress. Some Congressmen complained that Colbert disrespected them by telling jokes during the meeting.

Why would they be surprised? Steven Colbert offended people at the White House Correspondents' dinner, by pointing out some of the bad things they do.

The correct answer is "Congress deserves no respect. They're a bunch of terrorists."

However, Steven Colbert didn't really challenge Congress. By going to Congress to testify, Steven Colbert implicitly acknowledges Congress' legitimacy.

Steven Colbert represents the "debate ceiling". A celebrity can't show less respect for Congress than Colbert, and still keep his job. Colbert didn't say "All taxation is theft! Your authority is not legitimate!" He only partially disrespected Congress.

This seems like an entirely manufactured scandal. Congressmen should not be surprised that Colbert joked during the hearing. Colbert only made minor criticism, rather than questioning government's legitimacy.