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How Stewart Wins Over Neocons
Lefty comedian ready to listen to the other side
By Matt Cantor
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Posted Aug 10, 09 9:26 AM CDT
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(Newser)
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Jon Stewart’s liberal inclinations don't stop him from booking voices from the far right on the Daily Show—and they give glowing reviews of their experiences, New York magazine reports. A former GOP spokesman was leery of appearing on the program to discuss torture; pundit Bill Kristol encouraged him. The result: “Literally, this is the best conversation I've had on this subject anywhere,” Cliff May told Stewart.
“There is genuine intellectual curiosity," May says. "He's a staunch liberal, but he's a thoughtful liberal, and I respect that." Plus, notes John Bolton, “He always gives you a chance to answer, which some people don't do.” Conservatives find Stewart provides a route “to an audience that usually tunes them out,” writes Jacob Gershman. “Stewart will poke fun, but he offers a good-faith debate” on lightning-rod issues.