Fri Jan 24 14:30:00 UTC 2025: Late Night Hosts React to Biden’s Farewell Address Warning of Oligarchy
NEW YORK — President Biden’s farewell address, which warned of a rising oligarchy threatening American democracy, sparked a wave of humorous commentary from late-night hosts. While agreeing with the President’s concerns, several comedians questioned the timing and delivery of his stark message.
Seth Meyers quipped that Biden seemed to be “stuffing the suggestion box” on his way out, while Jordan Klepper joked that the speech felt more like a “stern talking-to” than a proactive plan. Other hosts echoed this sentiment, pointing out the lack of concrete solutions offered alongside the dire warnings.
Jimmy Kimmel highlighted the irony of Biden’s dire pronouncements on declining journalism juxtaposed with the public’s immediate search for the definition of “oligarchy” following the speech. Jimmy Fallon poked fun at Biden’s delivery, noting the contrast between his usual low-key demeanor and the gravity of the topic. Stephen Colbert similarly commented on the surprising, almost understated delivery of such a serious warning.
The overall consensus among the late-night hosts was one of agreement with Biden’s concerns about the threats to democracy, but with a significant dose of comedic skepticism regarding the timing and presentation of his message. Many found the farewell address to be a concerning but ultimately somewhat ineffective warning delivered at the end of his presidency.
First Piper 