Filed under: News, Interviews, Politics, President Obama, Health Care Debate
On what might be called "the Eve of Destruction" President Barack Obama visited "The Daily Show," hosted by Jon Stewart, on Wednesday to swap jokes and answer tough questions about his policies.
Stewart, who will host his "Rally to Restore Sanity" on Saturday in Washington, didn't throw the president soft ball questions and forced Obama to defend his record.
Obama's visit to the show comes ahead of crucial midterm elections Tuesday, where political pundits have predicted Democrats will likely lose control of the House of Representatives and may lose the Senate as well to Republicans.
Voter anger with all things incumbent and dissatisfaction with Obama's policies are being targeted for the Democratic bloodbath expected at the polls next week.
Stewart underscored the task facing Democrats by contrasting the soaring, hopeful messages of "Hope" and "Change" Obama used to great effect during his president run to the pleading messages of Democrats this election cycle that Stewart characterized as "Please, baby, one more chance."
Obama responded that realities of lingering high unemployment, dropping housing values and a sluggish economy are reflecting themselves in the political arena - and his party is paying the price.
Obama added that some parts of his agenda, such as the passage of credit card reform laws and the expansion of health insurance coverage for children, have received little fanfare:
"Over and over again, we have moved forward an agenda that is making a difference in people's lives each and every day," Obama said. "Now is it enough. No. So I expect and I think most Democrats out there want to see more progress."
Obama's comments were frequently interrupted by applause from the studio audience, underscoring the president's personal popularity despite the dim electoral prospects for his party.
In answer to Stewart's question on whether Democrats are running away from his record, Obama credited Reps. Tom Perriello of Virginia, John Boccieri of Ohio and Betsy Markey of Colorado for voting for health care reform, even though their votes may cost them their seats in Congress.
All three Democrats are even or trail Republicans in their conservative Congressional districts.
Obama wrapped up his appearance with a plea for everyone to vote and a handshake with Stewart.
In all, the president's visit to "The Daily Show" helped shine a light on his accomplishments in two short years in office. The true question is whether it will move the needle on what could otherwise be a painful Election Night for Democrats next week.