Former host of “The Daily Show” Jon Stewart became angry as he spoke at yesterday’s congressional hearing on a bill to ensure that the 9/11 victims' compensation fund can pay benefits for the next 70 years. Essentially, he was trying to help secure funding for those diagnosed w/ CANCER and respiratory diseases from Ground Zero toxins.
He was speaking to rows of empty chairs where lawmakers should have been sitting. Just over half of the 14 members of the House Judiciary Subcommittee were in attendance.
Jon spoke to the members of Congress who did show up and said: ”I can't help but think what an incredible metaphor this room is for the entire process getting health care and benefits for 9/11 first responders has come to—behind me a filled room of 9/11 first responders and in front of me a nearly empty Congress. Sick and dying, they brought themselves down here to speak, to no one. Shameful.”
The bill Jon is fighting for would reauthorize the fund, which is currently running short on money.
Jon Stewart, who is a longtime activist for 9/11 responders, did not hold back, at times breaking down in tears or shouting as he accused lawmakers of "indifference" and of "ignoring" responders who have been diagnosed with cancer and respiratory diseases in the wake of the attacks.
He said: ”They responded (to the 9/11 attacks) in 5 seconds. They did their jobs, with courage, grace, tenacity, humility ... 18 years later, do yours.”
After he spoke, he was given a standing ovation by the audience.
Source: NBC News, CBS News.
Photo Credit: Getty Images.