A night of unexpected turns on ‘The Late Show’
A lively evening in Chicago
Hosting “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert” live from Chicago’s Auditorium Theatre, right after the Democratic National Convention, promised an evening of engaging discussions and political insights. However, the night took an unexpected turn when the first guest, Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, was interrupted during her conversation with Colbert.
A sudden interruption
Pelosi, who was discussing her new book “The Art of Power,” found herself interrupted by a protester from the audience. Colbert, ever the professional, addressed the situation calmly, stating, ”For the people who can’t tell, there’s a protest going on in the audience.” He then swiftly cut to a commercial break, promising to return to the topic at hand.
Addressing the protest
Upon returning from the break, Colbert resumed his interview with Pelosi, but the atmosphere had shifted. He acknowledged the protest and pivoted the conversation to the broader issue of the US’s role in international conflicts. “The US using its power overseas, as I said earlier. There is a political protester here. There is a political invention in town, you are a politician and protests are natural. People are protesting, even within the Democratic party, there is dissension over what is the proper use of American power, especially protected power overseas, firm and soft power. If the goal is the peaceful and prosperous future for both Israelis and Palestinians, what role does the United States play?”
Pelosi’s perspective
Pelosi responded by highlighting President Biden’s extensive experience in foreign policy. She recounted a story from her youth, referencing John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address, and emphasized the importance of working together for global freedom. “That is our mission. That is what Joe Biden was all about. So yes, we have had a commitment to Israel. It’s been in our security interests to do so. Israel was attacked by a terrorist organization. We want the hostages freed. But we don’t want children killed in Gaza. So we have to come up with a solution.”
The protest continues
Despite Pelosi’s detailed response, the audience’s unrest continued. Colbert addressed the protester directly, asking if they would listen to Pelosi’s response. He then reiterated the protester’s concern: “They have said that the United States should not have any role in supplying Israel arms to kill people of Gaza. That’s what they are saying.”
Pelosi maintained her stance, advocating for a two-state solution as the only path to peace. “Israel has a right to defend itself. But the other part of it is that’s been so major for all of us for many years is that there must be a two-state solution. You cannot have peace unless you have a two-state solution. Israel, a secure Jewish democratic state in the region. And the Palestinians having their own, secure country there as well.”
Shifting gears
As the shouting from the audience persisted, Colbert attempted to steer the conversation back on track. Pelosi tried to lighten the mood by exclaiming, “Isn’t it great to be in Chicago?” before the segment went to another commercial break.
A new guest, a familiar topic
The next guest, Hakeem Jeffries, was also asked about the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Colbert posed a hypothetical question: How would a Speaker Jeffries advise a President Harris? Jeffries echoed the current administration’s efforts to achieve a cease-fire and provide humanitarian aid. “What President Biden is doing right now, what Kamala Harris is doing as part of the Biden-Harris administration, to do everything possible to try to achieve a cease-fire agreement. To bring the hostages home, to surge humanitarian assistance to Palestinian civilians who are in harm’s way, through no fault of their own. Surge that aid immediately and continuously. And to find a path toward a just and lasting peace.”
Wrapping up the night
After the show went off the air, Colbert addressed the audience, expressing his gratitude for their presence and participation. The protesters left peacefully, and the matter was handled without further incident.
This marked the second day of Colbert’s live run in Chicago, with the episode wrapping up just after 1 a.m. Central Time. The evening was a testament to the unpredictable nature of live television and the importance of addressing pressing global issues, even in the face of dissent.
For more insights and to watch the full episode, visit The Late Show With Stephen Colbert.