Comedian Jon Stewart was not joking around on Tuesday as he scolded Congress for not bothering to attend a hearing to reauthorize the September 11th Victims Compensation Fund (VCF).
The former Daily Show host has tirelessly lobbied for the first responders who heroically rushed into danger during the terrorist attacks of September 11th over the years.
Appearing at a hearing before the House Judiciary subcommittee, surrounded by first responders, Stewart did not hold back his contempt for those who did not have the respect to show up.
“As I sit here today, I can’t help but think what an incredible metaphor this room is for the entire process of getting health care and benefits for 9/11 first responders has come to,” Stewart said.
He told stories of those who heroically rushed into the danger to save others, and are now battling cancer and other serious illnesses from the toxins they were exposed to.
“You should be ashamed of yourselves for those that aren’t here,” Stewart said, “but you won’t be, because accountability doesn’t appear to be something that occurs in this chamber.”
“None of these people want to be here,” Stewart added. “But they are. They’re not here for themselves. They’re here to continue fighting for what’s right.”
Democratic Rep. Steve Cohen responded to Stewart by saying that the other members could have had conflicting schedules, and assumed that they meant no disrespect.
“My subcommittee, every single member on my side, which is eight of us, have been here today,” Cohen said. “All these empty chairs that’s because it’s for the full committee, not because it’s disrespect or lack of attention to you.”
