When Jon Stewart took over ‘The Daily Show,’ satire became a trusted news source

This article is part of The Poynter 50, a series reflecting on 50 moments and people that shaped journalism over the past half-century — and continue to influence its future. As Poynter celebrates its 50th anniversary, we examine how the media landscape has evolved and what it means for the next era of news.

Jon Stewart had been helming Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show” for almost six years when he appeared on “Crossfire,” a nightly CNN show that planted guests between co-hosts on opposite sides of the political spectrum. The liberal on this night in 2004, less than a month before incumbent President George W. Bush clinched reelection, was Paul Begala. The consultant introduced Stewart as “either the funniest smart guy on TV, or the smartest funny man.” Several minutes later, Begala’s conservative counterpart, Tucker Carlson, complained Stewart wasn’t being funny at all.

After fielding a few questions about John Kerry, the Democratic nominee for president, Stewart wielded an ax, ready to grind.