Stephen Colbert slammed for partisan Democratic support as he hosts lavish Biden fundraiser in New York
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: CBS host Stephen Colbert's recent involvement in a glitzy fundraiser for Democratic Party luminaries has sparked a wave of criticism, with many accusing him of abandoning his once-cherished role as a fearless satirist in favor of becoming a partisan cheerleader.
Colbert, known for his biting satire on 'The Daily Show' and 'The Colbert Report,' has increasingly aligned himself with the Democratic establishment since taking over 'The Late Show' on CBS.
His latest move came when he moderated a conversation with Democratic presidents Joe Biden, Barack Obama, and Bill Clinton at a high-profile fundraiser in New York City, which reportedly raised a whopping $26 million for Biden's 2024 presidential campaign.
Glitzy fundraiser draws celebrity elites and hefty price tags
The event, attended by a roster of liberal elites including celebrities like Lizzo, Cynthia Erivo, and Queen Latifah, saw Colbert at the forefront. Attendees were required to pay hefty sums, ranging from $250 to $500,000, for access to different levels of engagement.
A notable perk included a photo opportunity with all three presidents, captured by renowned photographer Annie Leibovitz, for a staggering $100,000.
In a piece in Vogue, Colbert was praised for his handling of the conversation, described as "tactful" and "graceful," while injecting humor into the proceedings with his trademark wit.
The article highlighted Colbert's familiarity with the Obamas, particularly Michelle Obama, whom he referenced in a light-hearted exchange with Barack Obama.
"Whatever you want to say about Stephen Colbert, you have to acknowledge his guts," journalist Eli Lake joked.
"How many other late-night hosts would risk the Hollywood backlash and come out for Biden like this?"
The Bulwark's Marc Caputo added, "We have a pretty robust media-covering-media industry, but there’s scant coverage about a host of a flagship show on a major network fundraising for a presidential candidate."
Whatever you want to say about Stephen Colbert, you have to acknowledge his guts. How many other late night hosts would risk the Hollywood backlash and come out for Biden like this?
— Eli Lake (@EliLake) March 29, 2024
Throughout the evening, Colbert reportedly peppered the conversation with jabs at former President Trump, framing questions to allow Biden and others to tout their economic achievements.
A theatrical finale and Stephen Colbert's political evolution
The event culminated in a staged moment where Colbert, Obama, and Clinton donned aviator sunglasses in homage to Biden, amid cheers from the audience.
"I’ve been lucky enough to spend some time with you and your wife," Colbert told Obama, according to Vogue. "She’s repeatedly asked me to call her Michelle… So my question is, to Presidents Biden and Clinton: Don’t you think I should be able to call him Barack?"
Critics have pointed out the stark contrast between Colbert's current role as a Democratic booster and his past reputation as a sharp critic of political power.
His scathing roast of President George W Bush at the 2006 White House Correspondents Dinner, which drew widespread attention and praise for its fearless commentary, stands in stark contrast to his current alignment with the Democratic establishment.
While mainstream news reports acknowledged Colbert's participation in the fundraiser, they largely overlooked the implications of a comedian cozying up to elite Democrats and actively raising funds for their political campaigns.
