Renowned comedian and “The Late Show” host, Stephen Colbert, took a satirical swipe at former President Donald Trump on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, responding to recent controversial remarks that bore a striking resemblance to language used by historical fascists.
Colbert’s biting commentary, reported by Raw Story, centered around Trump’s reference to “blood poisoning,” drawing parallels to Hitler and Mein Kampf. The humor-infused critique arose from a statement made by Marc Short, former Vice President Pence’s chief of staff, during a Fox News Sunday panel.
Short’s comment, met with laughter among panelists, cast doubt on Trump’s familiarity with Mein Kampf, stating, “I think it’s highly unlikely that Donald Trump has ever read Mein Kampf.”
Colbert seized upon this skepticism, echoing Short’s sentiment sarcastically: “Right because it’s a book.” The late-night host humorously speculated on Trump’s hypothetical engagement with Hitler’s work, suggesting a preschool-level version, quipping, “He probably got the one with pictures — Mein First Kampf.”
Adding to the satire, Colbert referenced an animated book prop featured on his show, playfully titled “Mein First Kampf,” depicting a baby-like figure with a Hitler-esque mustache engaging in childlike activities.
The comedic commentary responded to Trump’s recent rally in Durham, New Hampshire, where the former president made contentious remarks about immigrants, drawing swift criticism for language reminiscent of historical fascist rhetoric.
Colbert, in his signature comedic style, highlighted the absurdity of Trump’s statement by facetiously questioning, “They’re poisoning the blood of our country?” He then redirected the conversation with humor, asserting, “Our country isn’t being poisoned by immigrants; it’s being poisoned by dipping pizza in ranch dressing.”
Through this satirical take, Colbert aimed to critique Trump’s controversial remarks while injecting levity into the political discourse. The juxtaposition of serious political commentary and whimsical humor served to underscore the inherent incongruity and alarming nature of Trump’s rhetoric, highlighting potential consequences of such divisive language within the public sphere.
As Colbert continues to use his platform to blend humor and social commentary, his satirical take on Trump’s rhetoric underscores the intersection of comedy and political discourse in the contemporary media landscape.