DISQUS

Kathy · 1 year ago

I have an inside connection... he's going to totally through you off and ask you......

What color of underwear are you wearing.

Carolann Najarian · 1 year ago

Look at what he did to Krugman last night. It was pretty disgusting. He seems to be on an 'unAmerican' kind of junket. He might do it again to you -- just as he did to Krugman though PK wasn't there to counter Colbert.

Maureen O'Connor · 1 year ago

You can ask a question based on what happens at the debate. Stephen Colbert is the best. He skewers conservatives and makes me laugh every night. I am glad you are going on the show.

jestire · 1 year ago

I think he's going to ask you about this plea for help.

coolhand · 1 year ago

He's going to ask you why you won't release your medical records.

C Reese · 1 year ago

He's going to ask who's hotter Sarah Palin or Cindy McCain

mad hatter deb · 1 year ago

Just ask Colbert. He is I found in real life a nice guy who will probably help you with a comeback himself he is not for this stuff!! Like on the commercial about a doctor once said he only plays one on TV!!

rick · 1 year ago

use the Palin defense. Blow off his question and answer another question of your own choosing. Better yet, ask him a question such as, "are the rumors about you and Papa Bear having an intimate relationship really true?"

Rona · 1 year ago

He is not aout to get you -- just likes to make fun of everyone -- and does a good job of it. Just keep your cool and stay on message.

Leila Eaton · 1 year ago

Just have a sense of humor...I mean that question was hilarious. He's just being an ass and you can't take him seriously. He's trying to out asshole the assholes of the media. You should have all your high moral ducks in a row and then shoot them down yourself. Whatever dude...don't go on that show if you don't like the questions he asks. It's kind of like presidential candidates going on the late night comedy entertainment shows. It gives me the heebie geebies. Also it is a bit relentless what you do but I guess I am pretty much behind most of what your objectives. Still I think that you give more power sometimes to the targets of your exposes rather than diminishing them.

Jodi · 1 year ago

Why don't you pull a "Sarah Palin"? Just smile sweetly and declare that you aren't going to answer the question; but you are going to speak directly to the citizens of the United States of America, look into the camera earnestly, then proceed with your prepared statement.

dummdrum · 1 year ago

I think you should ask him why Ben and Jerry's can't keep the cone bits in his Americone Dream crispy.

Orangutan. · 1 year ago

Sarcastically bring up the unfinished Anthrax Case, the lack of investigation into the 9/11 Attacks, and the propensity towards Election Fraud with private companies controlling the election machine software. That should cover any monkey business that occurs.

Kelly · 1 year ago

I LOVE Jodi's response! But be prepared for, "Why are you supporting a Muslim terrorist who plans to destroy America?"

Cathy · 1 year ago

He is do darn unpredictable. Perhaps you should pull a Sarah Palin and inform him that you "may not" answer his questions the way he wants (or his questions at all) -- but you are going to talk "directly to the American people." You becha.

windseye · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert if he's wiling to get rid of his suit and show his hippie underwear... (superyuppie!)

Cathy · 1 year ago

Grat minds...

PJ · 1 year ago

someone needs to ask Stephen about John McCain's first wife and why he left her?


--- On Wed, 10/1/08, John <hurleyje> wrote:

From: John </hurleyje><hurleyje>
Subject: Sad choice......
To: "joel adams" <jadams>
Date: Wednesday, October 1, 2008, 7:15 PM

Isn't it sad this is the choice we have..... Something is VERY wrong here. This is the best we the people can put up for election to the highest office in the land. We are obviosly doing something VERY wrong! We've got 545 people running the country (see earlier email "It's not a Republican or Democratic problem......") that are some of the sleaziest people on earth. I doubt that 50 of them are people you would want to have anything to do with. It's time to start voting against ALL incumbents unless they are people you would trust to be your kids mentors.



Subject: Check this on Snopes.com



In this election, as has been true in many past elections, we only have the lesser of two evils from which to choose. McCain is no pillar of rectitude, and joins a long life of men with similar histories. One only needs to read the life stories of LBJ, Jack Kennedy , Ted Kennedy , FDR, Eisenhower , ad nauseum to learn about a long line of first class schmucks. With that said, would you rather have a schmuck for a president , or a person who has many people working with, and for, him that do not have our best interests at heart? Your choice…personally, I would rather a schmuck in the White House than someone with very suspect followers… Ed

------------------ thanks to my good friend, Reetzie.

A must read! First wife out of sight, how shallow can one man be?

Carol McCain

McCain likes to illustrate his moral fiber by referring to his five years as a prisoner-of-war in Vietnam . And to demonstrate his commitment to family values, the 71-year-old former US Navy pilot pays warm tribute to his beautiful blonde wife, Cindy , with whom he has four children. But there is another Mrs. McCain who casts a ghostly shadow over the Senator's presidential campaign. She is seldom seen and rarely written about, despite being mother to McCain's three eldest children.

She was the woman McCain dreamed of during his long incarceration and torture in Vietnam 's infamous ' Hanoi Hilton ' prison and the woman who faithfully stayed at home looking after the children and waiting anxiously for news. But when McCain returned to America in 1973 to a fanfare of publicity and a handshake from Richard Nixon, he discovered his wife had been disfigured in a terrible car crash three years earlier. Her car had skidded on icy roads into a telegraph pole on Christmas Eve, 1969.

Her pelvis and one arm were shattered by the impact and she suffered massive internal injuries.

When Carol was discharged from hospital after six months of lifesaving surgery, the prognosis was bleak. In order to save her legs, surgeons had been forced to cut away huge sections of shattered bone, taking with it her tall, willowy figure. She was confined to a wheelchair and was forced to use a catheter. Today, she stands at just 5' 4" in and still walks awkwardly, with a pronounced limp. Her body is held together by screws and metal plates and, at 70, her face is worn by wrinkles that speak of decades of silent suffering.

For nearly 30 years, Carol has maintained a dignified silence about the accident, McCain and their divorce. But last week at the bungalow where she now lives at Virginia Beach , a faded seaside resort 200 miles south of Washington , she told The Mail on Sunday how McCain divorced her in 1980 and married Cindy, 18 years his junior and the heir to an Arizona brewing fortune, just one month later.

My marriage ended because John McCain didn't want to be 40, he wanted to be 25. You know that happens...it just does.'

In 1979 - while still married to Carol - he met Cindy at a cocktail party in Hawaii . Over the next six months he pursued her, flying around the country to see her. Then he began to push to end his marriage. Some of McCain's acquaintances are less forgiving, however. They portray the politician as a self-centered womanizer who effectively abandoned his crippled wife to 'play the field'. They accuse him of finally settling on Cindy , a former rodeo beauty queen, for financial reasons.

Ted Sampley, who fought with US Special Forces20in Vietnam and is now a leading campaigner for veterans' rights, said: 'I have been following John McCain 's career for nearly 20 years. I know him personally. There is something wrong with this guy and let me tell you what it is-deceit.'

When he came home and saw that Carol was not the beauty he left behind, he started running around on her almost right away. Everybody around him knew it. Eventually he met Cindy and she was young and beautiful and very wealthy. At that point McCain just dumped Carol for something he thought was better."

McCain is the classic opportunist. He's always reaching for attention and glory,' he said. After he came home, Carol walked with a limp. So he threw her over for a poster girl with big money from Arizona . And the rest is history.'

Ross Perot, a billionaire Texas businessman, and a former presidential candidate, who paid her medical bills all those years ago, now believes that both Carol McCain and the American people have been taken in by a man who is unusually slick and cruel - even by the standards of modern politics.

To be conscious that you are ignorant is a great step to knowledge.</jadams></hurleyje>

R · 1 year ago

The Palin response is definitely the way to go. No matter what the question, turn to face the camera and say that instead of serving the needs of the media elite, you would prefer to speak directly to the American people, then say whatever you want.

Fellow commenters - you all understand that Colbert is a comedian playing a role, right? He's not really a part of the right wing noise machine. It's satire.

Cathy · 1 year ago

That is --

Great minds

(they think alike...)

rod · 1 year ago

Is John McCain running a great campaign or the GREATEST Campaign?

Brandon Cato · 1 year ago

Colbert might ask you: "Why does Barack Obama pal around with terrorists?" Of course, he's joking. But your response should be: "IF Barack Obama were indeed "consorting with terrorists", he would most certainly NOT be able to run for President." If Colbert asks you a similar question from the last time you were on his show: "Who hates America more?" Take a moment to answer. Be calm, cool and collected. Then say (if the subject is you or Michael Moore), "I consider myself and Michael Moore PATRIOTS who LOVE this country; and we do what we do because we believe in Truth, Justice and The American Way." Stay on the "I'm an American Patriot" theme when your partriotism is questioned.

steve binder · 1 year ago

Being a director for many years I would suggest you not try to be funny and compete with him. He's brilliant at comedy and you will pale by comparison. You have a solid serious message to deliver and stay on point...with a smile on your face.
Steve Binder

K cONDON · 1 year ago

QUESTION FOR COLBERT:

"Sarah Palin, Can she become even a better VP than Aaron Burr"?

Orangutan. · 1 year ago

Put the American people first. Drive the issue towards Election Fraud and Lack of Investigations into the Anthrax and 9/11 cases. We need to get at the root of the problems and quit playing the celebrity surface game. You can blow him out of the water with that. If he questions that, bring up the full history of false flag terrorist attacks and ask him why the Anthrax came from a U.S. Lab. Peace bro. Good luck.

roxane johnson · 1 year ago

I suggest you take the approach Sarah Palin took-instead of answering any of Colbert's questions just say your going to take a different approach and talk directly to the people about what a maverick you are, "well,gosh Steve. May I call you Steve?" and then just talk about whatever you want to talk about! So then you won't be stunned by any question he asks because it really doesn't matter. Pretend he's not even there.

John · 1 year ago

I agree with below - it's all about subtext and sarcasm. The right answer to the Michael Moore Q is "Well, Steven, it's neck and neck right about now, but we're lagging behind a dark horse who's way out in front. You haven't mentioned him because he's not well known -- David Addington. Ever heard of him?

TatumsDad · 1 year ago

He'll probably ask if you've returned to finally apologize for all the damage you've done to the American people by destroying their sense of well-being and insulting their heroes. You should ask why his name is pronounced with that French sounding surrender-monkey inflection. Isn't good old American English good enough for him? Have fun and good luck!

Jeff · 1 year ago

Question for Colbert:

If John McCain really wants to put Country first, why is he, as a multi-millionaire, receiving $23,000 in Social Security every year?

Mando Saenz · 1 year ago

Incourage McCain and "Pile...on" to continue with the negative ads, because they are driving Independents and some Republicans to Obama.

Jim Manley · 1 year ago

Here's a quote you can use for any occasion: "I agree with Mark Twain: "Patriotism is supporting your country all the time, and your government when it deserves it.""

Lou · 1 year ago

Hey Robert, First of all, thanks for the important work you do. ...and if I were asking questions the way he does, the first question I would ask is: "So when did you start picking on the elderly?"

Steve Alexander · 1 year ago

Mr. Greenwald and Mr. Moore both LOVE America. What they both have in common is they both HATE what the republicans (big money corporations) are doing to it. If they did not love America why go through all this effort telling people what big money is doing? I would guess that Mr. Moore's hatred for big money is greater than Mr. Greenwald's.

Jeff Sweet · 1 year ago

Since this is the season of guilt by association, ask Colbert to defend his keeping company with ... the list is pretty long.

Greg · 1 year ago

He might ask about you asking for help on how to nail him.

But I concur with using Palin technique; lots of Youbetcha and oh ya!

Of course, you could answer his questions with his questions repeated in a contemplative tone. Or ask him the same question right back?

Or answer questions you want to answer. e.g. "Well that reminds me of a point about..."

Mark · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert "Stephen Colbert or Watering the lawn. Which is more important during these hard finacial times?"

Steve Consilvio · 1 year ago

I would ask you if you are deeply paranoid or just the run-of-the- frothing self-righteous type?

lol

Are you really asking people how to 'nail' Colbert? What a joke. Do you have any self-awareness at all?

While I agree with SOME of your analysis of the political situation, your presentation and search for perpetual blame is a joke.

Also, if you weren't such a nitwit you could have knocked such a cream-puff question like "who hates America more' out of the ballpark. I can't believe you are complaining about such an easy question to answer. You desperately need to get your pride and vanity under control.

mm · 1 year ago

best to work WITH Colbert on this one. The show is satire...

mary · 1 year ago

It can be a challenge but try and keep in our mind the facts that (a) when you are invited as a guest on a comedy show, your job is to be the straight man; (b) it's a fake right wing show, you are both on the same side, and that the idea is to jointly nail McCain and Palin by poking fun at them.

Maybe you can remind listeners that Colbert himself declared his candidacy for president early last year, and claim that you were a strong supporter.


Maybe you can suggest that after the election, McCain and Palin could start their own comedy show and give Colbert a run for his money.

Watch Colbert's interview with Neal Katyal, the human rights lawyer who defended the rights of prisoners at Gitmo to have a trial. Katyal brought his own props (a copy of the Constitution with most of it blacked out) and made it very hard for Colbert to nail him.

kegray · 1 year ago

Just have fun with him.....and talk about the facts.He has you on the show because he likes what you're doing. You're the friend. Remember that.

Margaret · 1 year ago

The guests who seem to do best on Stephen Colbert's show are the ones who compliment him to almost absurd lengths. I would also have a couple of very short and to-the-point stories that illustrate the issues you have most recently addressed, i.e., how McCain is involved in the politics of hate.

Gary · 1 year ago

He will ask you if ACORN is doing all they can to skew the vote.

Brad P. from NJ · 1 year ago

Hmmm... I'm sensing a question along the lines of:

"So, if you could have your way, would we hand America directly over to Iran, or wait until after the inauguration ball?"

or...

"Do you disrespect all veterans, or only the ones who were held in prison camps during the Vietnam War?"

Those might be good shockers... I mean, they take the right wing smear into account, and they take one of the only substantive things I heard in McCain's convention speech... oh, or...

"Why don't you want John McCain to be your friend?"

that'd hit on that whole "my friends" thing McCain keeps doing...

Have a good time, I'll be watching you time shifted, buying a copy from iTunes.

GeorgeS · 1 year ago

Be prepared for:
"Do you think that Americans are as stupid, uniformed, ideological and easilly swayed by irrelevent noise as McCain-Palin obviously do?"

JGreen · 1 year ago

Robert- don't try to anticipate what Colbert will ask, and then don't try to 'nail' him. He's on our side- so play along & whatever he asks, do what politicians do, give you're own answer-- starting with "I do what I do because I love truth, & because the facts are out there- and main stream news has stopped reporting them accurately, or at ALL lonnng ago"

Den Mark Wichar · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert why comedic & non-comedic socio-political commentators (& it is sometimes hard to distinguish the two) choose the easy way, by dealing with what has happened already, rather than the more difficult matter of what hasn't happened yet. To put it otherwise, is it not easier to look backward than to look forward. Is it not harder to be a visionary, rather than a mere entertainer.

Vita · 1 year ago

Robert! "Nailing" is Colbert's schtick! It's what he DOES! Just have fun! Laughing uproariously at that question about Michael Moore was the ONLY appropriate response! Relax - have fun - it's the Colbert Report! Cheers!

Puas · 1 year ago

Why don't you make the point that there are a lot of Bears in Alaska and Bears are the enemy number 1 of America?

MrsD · 1 year ago

I'd take a tape of Jerry Jeff Walker's classic Pissing in the Wind (Or, I'd invite Jerry jeff to be on the show with you)

Obviously McCain doesn't understand that if you're going to piss in the wind, you'd better make sure the wind is at your back.

The NYT's headline story today is this www.nytimes.com

"...The McCain campaign’s recent angry tone and sharply personal attacks on Senator Barack Obama appear to have backfired and tarnished Senator John McCain more than their intended target, the latest New York Times/CBS News poll has found...

...Over all, the poll found that if the election were held today, 53 percent of those determined to be probable voters said they would vote for Mr. Obama and 39 percent said they would vote for Mr. McCain...

...voters who said that their views of Mr. McCain had changed were three times more likely to say that they had worsened...

...Ms. Palin’s favorability rating is now 32 percent, down 8 points from last month, and her unfavorable rating climbed nine percentage points to 41 percent..."

Here's an appropriate song to use as background as you read the complete NYT's article:
http://www.dizzler.com/music/Jerry_Jeff_Walker

And, why is it every time I see Palin, I keep hearing this song: www.youtube.com

Clay · 1 year ago

What the heck? The show is comedy. Why don't you let him do his thing? If you try to use this as a serious interview you'll look like other morons on his show who try to do that.

Loch Phillipps · 1 year ago

If I wanted to be funny, I would ask you about Xanadu and try to deflate what you're doing now by using that. Prepare yourself with a joke about this. Everyone is right. Don't take yourself too seriously.

chris crews · 1 year ago

Here's the soundest advice i think anyone could give. Be yourself. Don't try to outsmart Steven, but don't let him outsmart you either. Give him honest but sharp responses, use your knowledge and experience, and don't be afraid to poke back. But don't go in thinking its going to be a shooting gallery either. Have fun with it, and try to maybe get 1-2 major talking points out. That will be a good victory. And don't forget to have fun, Steven (and us watching) enjoy it more.

Anne · 1 year ago

Colbert relies on attacking with humorous but distressing cognitive dissonance. Use his own weapon against him. The classic brain-wreck device is to ask "Do you walk to school, or carry your lunch?" For the Moore question, the proper response was, "I'll answer that if you answer this: Who loves America more, you or the wing-nut satirical character you play on Colbert Report?"

Sam McKerall · 1 year ago

The Colbert Report is satire. He warns everyone about that before the show. You sound as if you do not know that.

The way to deal with it is simply to call BS on whatever silly thing he asks.

If you can't handle what are essentially "Have you stopped beating your wife?" questions, don't go on the show, or you'll damage Obama.

Sam McKerall

Margaret · 1 year ago

Of course it is about sarcasm. The appropriate response to "Who hates America more?" is how much you love the American ideals of equality and justice which is why you do the work you do. You must reframe the issues along the lines of George Lakoff (www.rockridgeinstitute.org). Speak about your concerns in a nonpartisan way such as concerns about the hatred, anger and fear being stirred up and the lack of focus on the key issues facing real Americans - economy, health care, war, environment. You can do it! Don't go into the right wing frame (but to be honest, I believe Colbert sometimes does a better job of mocking the right than Stewart). You can mock right along with him.

LeftCoastOracle · 1 year ago

I'd suggest that he might ask about the video that's gotten the most traffic. Remember, he's playing a role and it's to his advantage to invite as much attention to your position as possible.

I'd ask him, So, given Sarah Palin's obvious ambition to get into the White House, do you think that Sen. McCain should be looking over his shoulder?

Rich · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert how much he has benefited from the bailout. Will he get enough to retrofit the set so that it doesn't look like a tacky, cheap imitation of O'Reily but looks more like the set that his fellow commentator, and flipflopping McSame supporter, Karl Rove has? Ask him if he will vote for McSame and "Bush-in-a-bra-&-briefs."

Max Entropy · 1 year ago

If I were Colbert I would want to know "WHY ARE YOU SUGGESTING TO MCCAIN AND PALIN THAT THEY BEHAVE BETTER IF YOU DON'T WANT THEM TO WIN?" I haven't figured that out myself yet; seems like you're wasting your time, and if they listen, you might be responsible for them getting more votes.

Gary Mc... · 1 year ago

Absolutely SATIRE. Man, I hope we all know that! I would just have fun with him. It seems the people who laugh-off his (intentially) absurd comments seem to get their point across. Have fun, smile a lot and let America see some issues.

Suzanne · 1 year ago

Robert, I think you have to come out of the gate almost shouting continuously. WHAT you say isn't as important as how loudly and non-stop you say it. Take the upper hand early. Good luck - I'll be watching.

Kurt · 1 year ago

If Colbert asks "Why do you hate America?" I suggest answering:
"Why does John McCain hate America is the question. He must hate America based on his choice of VP. Why else would he choose a VP running mate that is so amazingly unprepared for the job of President?"
This attacks McCain's perceived strength - Country First.

David · 1 year ago

Just realize that the Colbert Report is an O'Riley satire comedy show. Anything you can say to mock O'Riley or the conservative talking heads will be well received.

The correct answer to the hate America question is "I hate America far less than Bill O'Riley hates America!"

P · 1 year ago

Historically this is the type of question that is used to thwart any progressive change in America. “The 40 hour week will cripple business in America”, “Paid vacation- what are you crazy- being paid for not working?” , Unemployment Insurance, Medicare and Medicaid, Welfare, GI Bill, Social Security….. These are all characterized by reactionary pundits, especially when they are first proposed, as harmful to America. Hold your head up high and defend what you are doing as in the best spirit of the rights and responsibilities of a patriotic American.

charles jameson · 1 year ago

It's old: Have you stopped beating your wife?

Linda · 1 year ago

I think he would question you on what dems have against Sarah Palin simply to see if you can describe the immense difficulties of seeing her as VP without treading on the 'sacred grounds' republicans have set up around her.

Jeff · 1 year ago

The answer to "Why are you supporting a Muslim terrorist who plans to destroy America?" is "If that is true, then he would defend us better because he knows how terrorists think."

Joseph Lawson · 1 year ago

Trying to nail Stephen Colbert is the wrong approach; it will only make you come off as petty. You simply have to be prepared for him to say what seems the most outrageous and ridiculous thing. THIS IS THE POINT OF THE SHOW!! That is why it is funny and that is why we watch. Paradoxically, when he does this, he is actually intending just the opposite.

You have to be calm and laugh with the rest of us. We get your point.

Karen · 1 year ago

Check out this article in Entertainment Weekly:

http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20228603,00.html

Colbert and Stewart are interviewed, and Colbert actually speaks as himself most of the time, not his O'Reilly persona. You might find some tidbits there.

Sam McKerall · 1 year ago

PS

Follow Steve Binder's advice below. You canNOT compete with this man.

Sam

David Palmer · 1 year ago

Since when does dissagreeing with your country's policies mean that you hate your country. Passivity and acceptance of wrong, would be what I call dislike for your country. Ambivolence toward your teenage children's discipline does not make for a good parent as ambivolence toward your country's bad policies does not make for a good citizen.

Martha Nochimson · 1 year ago

Stagger Stephen, whom I adore, by the way, by asking him how his affair with Jane Fonda is going. You will remember that she played the sex card with him when she was a guest on his show. You might get him off balance enough that you can get in a word in edgewise.

larryniven · 1 year ago

I would be prepared for questions about the economy (e.g., now that we've given the banks their money and the stock market went up, how soon can we admit that John McCain's suspending his campaign saved the country?) and about Bill Ayers (e.g., do you think Obama has Ayers's autographed terrorist rookie card?). As for questions to ask him, the obvious one (as pointed out by a friend) is to ask who loves America more, McCain or Colbert himself. Also, if he brings up McCain's temper in any kind of positive light, you might want to point out that Colbert himself relies heavily on rage, so again, Colbert would be a better prez than McCain.

Keith Brown · 1 year ago

Ask him if he's seen Zeitgeistmovie.com. If he hasn't...then tell him you'll talk to him again after he has done.

Stephen Kane · 1 year ago

Per your request I would like to offer the following suggestions when you respond to Mr. Colbert.

Avoid answering by referencing yourself. In other words, instead of saying I, instead respond with a question. For example, when asked who hates America more, ask a rebuttle question: Mr. Colbert, why do you equate criticism of U.S. policy with hatred of the United States.

The question you were asked builds in a pre-suppostion that you are unpatriotic, so responding makes you the fall guy. You were attacked, respond in kind by asking a pointed question.

You might construe your position as similar to a tennis player. You need to keep moving to hit the ball.

Good luck.

Sincerely,

Stephen Kane

Marc Bashara · 1 year ago

Robert,

If you have time, find and string-together Repub. talking-points
as Similar with some aspect of your great films.

Good Luck!

keekers · 1 year ago

I saw that episode and I did not take that as a negative. Either answer is completely silly. And the answer of course is neither, on the scale of love America we are near the top, else why put ourselves thru this conflict???
or you could have asked him which America are you talking about?

I think he was being very sarcastic: he always states the most egregious right wing bull up front and on the face of it tweaks the ridiculous.

as for next time, look at him as an ally for truth, he has already claimed truth, so you can hold him to it. Why is the truth so hard for us?

Iris · 1 year ago

It seems to me that the people who come off best with Colbert are those who are willing to laugh at/with him and themselves and enjoy the whole experience. To a certain extent, I'd do as the politicians do--try to think what you want to get across and stick it in wherever possible. After all, he's really on our side!

ADNK · 1 year ago

Stephen Colbert is the Zen Master of interviews. Any attempt to predict his attack is doomed to fail.

Always think of him as "Papa Bear" Bill O'Reilly, but with more hair and fewer inhibitions and less of that pesky "fact" thing and you'll do fine.

Matthew · 1 year ago

The guests that do the best are those who don't take themselves too seriously or "out absurd" him. Study the recent Oliver Stone interview. An example of a response to "John McCain's Rage Is a National Security Concern" could be be: his rage is the wrong energy source for America because it's not renewable - it's like nuclear energy, it appears to be melting down his campaign."

jef weisel · 1 year ago

as many others are saying, just relax and have fun. you're really there to be showcased, so don't be a stiff - laugh and speak your truthiness.

Anton-Scott Goustin · 1 year ago

Robert, you must be aware that more Americans trust Comedy Central (mainly Jon Stewart) for honest political reporting than any of the networks, including FOX and CNN. So be careful! Colbert is not your enemy, silly! It is Sarah Palin and her puppeteers--McCain, Rove, really sick people who think like Machiavelli. Machiavelli's Prince ruled the people using fear and anger. These base emotions override the frontal lobe (rationality), this is basic brain physiology, a fact. Thomas Jefferson and J-J Rousseau like the Greek philosophers believed that politics should be ruled by reason, not Machiavellian fear-mongering like Red Alerts, race-baiting, tribalism. But TJ and JJR forgot the tool that Jonathan Swift and Mark Twain used so well to push their liberal agenda. LAUGHTER! Gulliver pissing on the ship to put out the fire. Huck Finn's 1845 version of Sarah Palin--Pap! Pap! After a couple of months, Pap’s beatings become too harsh and too frequent, and Huck decides to escape. The same night as Huck’s decision, Pap gets extremely drunk and begins to denounce the government for its laws and the positive treatment of African-Americans. ...

Read Twain! Read Swift! Comedy is a liberal political tool, Robert. OK?

Oh yeah, and don't forget The Great Dictator by Chaplin!

Bobbie Groth · 1 year ago

Don't forget to laugh!! Laugh after EVERYTHING Colbert asks you, before you try to answer it! It's kind of like when you're a woman and you go to court, you have to not answer the questions by reacting to how they affect you emotionally, but take a deep breath and think. Laughing at Colbert gives you that think time, and then, BE A SMART ASS! This is satire and sarcasm, not truth, that's happening on Colbert, so go into it with a sense of fun--can you cast aside the "serious liberal" compulsion to try to bring it back to the actual rational questions, or can you meet fire with fire and enjoy yourself? Good luck! You don't need a spinmeister, you need a sarcastic wit! Watch some of the old Lenny Bruce stuff!!

Robert Mc Gillen · 1 year ago

Ask Mr. Colbert if he thinks Sen Mc Cains Treatment for PTSD was as successful as he claims.

David · 1 year ago

I agree, you should just have fun. Since he'll probably know about this e-mail by you, he most likely won't aske about any of the things you asked about... So just be relaxed & try to have your own comeback when needed. For example, the answer to the "hates America" question could have been: "I'm so glad you asked that question. So I could point out the REAL question is 'which one LOVES America most'... & the answer is probably that it's a TIE!" ;-)

Tony · 1 year ago

BEARS! You must talk to Colbert about bears. Also, a surprising number of the people posting here seem not to "get it" and think that you are earnestly asking for advice and not just advertising your appearance and playong along with his schtick.

George Lacy · 1 year ago

You are kidding right?
Colbert is a Comedian. He is NOT Rush Limbaugh (who claims to be only entertainment - not news).

Key words here are SARCASM and IRONY.

YOU don't hate America - Sara Palin HATES America.

richfair · 1 year ago

Simple: remember Colbert's goal is to get laughs. So, your best ploy is to respond in a way to make people laugh. Don't take yourself or him too seriously.
For example, "Who hates America more...? Answer: "Isn't it obvious? How many anti-McCain videos do I have to produce before you will understand - it's me. After all, Michael Moore only produces feature length films. I appeal instead to American's limited attention span with 30 second or one minute spots."
"Oh, so you are saying Americans are stupid?"
"Yep!"

tomdurk · 1 year ago

Colbert is one of my favorites. If he really hits you off guard, tell him you invoke the McBush-Palin rule: Say whatever you want, regardless of the question.

Margaret Ross · 1 year ago

People deliberately and maliciously like to substitute one word for another: You don't support the troops (war), do you? Michael Moore hates the USA (neo-cons). This is a game, my friend. You can play it, too, with a bit of practice. You are a very devout Christian (wingnut), aren't you? See! Semantics.

Lynne · 1 year ago

Just enjoy your time with Stephen. We all know that he and Jon Stewart give us the real news. I LOVE both shows. Colbert and Stewart have done more to boost Obama/Biden than just about anyone. With great wit and cut-to-the chase stuff.
If you can get on Rachel Maddow...that'd be wonderful too.

Cheryl Elkins · 1 year ago

2 vocabulary questions:
1. What word describes fake outrage (a popular tactic with republicans)?
2. What word describes fake suspension of a campaign to fake rush to DC to fake save the economy?

Thanks for asking

Debbie · 1 year ago

I think one of the first questions he will ask is why you hate John McCain. Then he'll get into your films and why they show your hatred.

SUEC716 · 1 year ago

Why don't you admit that you were secretly having an affair and are in love with Sarah Palin and that's why you do not like McCain?

He has stolen your lover!! The more absurd--the funnier he gets and you will score BIG TIME with the audience!

DL Hall · 1 year ago

He's trying to be Bill O'Reilly, so be prepared for the outragious.

Be prepared to say that ONLY the Left Wing loves America and fights for the lives of our soldiers and respects religion and exposes lies that wreck our economy and kill the middle class, that the ego-religious and ego-moralists (not really moralists, not really religious but egotistically identifies) are destroying the moral foundation this country has earned since the Civil Rights movement and that McCain, Palin and Republicans are turning us back to days of the Depression when racial divides dominated and white supremacy was normal and still unanalyzed.

Be prepared to utter the most obvious: that you do what you do because YOU are a PATRIOT! Use McCain /Palin lingo to be successful.

Sheree Drake · 1 year ago

Bobbie Groth comment has it exactly right! EXACTLY the advice I wanted to post. Laugh at the comments, don't be too serious, that always makes guests seem out of touch and uncool about the show. Don't worry about the details, just get the point across about your website and videos, then have fun with the rest of it!!! Best of Luck to you!

Bob Olivarez · 1 year ago

I'd just go with it. Colbert is great and nothing brings the point home more than his brand of sarcasm. Colbert is pretty quick and I feel pretty much anything you say he's going to get you on. Thats how he works and it's very effective...and funny to boot.
Enjoy and I do envy you...would love to meet him myself.
bob o

Christy Bengston · 1 year ago

Share with him the new videos you have made on why one should vote for Obama rather than not for for McCain.

Lois · 1 year ago

I LOVE Stephen Colber(t)! He'd better be kidding about his leanings to the right, though. Out-kid him. Be ready to "zing" him with a few shots, to throw him off his game.

Paul K. Cranmer · 1 year ago

Begin the interview by asking him: "Given the failure of conservative ideology to make our country a better place to live and a better member of the global community, who hates America more, you or the Republican Party?"

Christy · 1 year ago

On the Colbert Report - there is no way to anticipate the question! Take a deep breath, smile, and roll with it!

cindy callas · 1 year ago

You can't nail Stephen, but maybe you can fluster him if you sit on his lap and fondle him like Jane Fonda did!

Patricia Snyder · 1 year ago

Just don't take him so seriously. Be funny.

carol sauer · 1 year ago

I agree with those that have already posted. You really did well. Let Stephen do his thing, he is clearly making YOUR point. This is to make obvious to those who use other parts of their bodies to think, realize that they might use thier brains since it is already installed hardware in thier bodies.

Just do YOUR thing, and bring the truth, because after all the truth in video form is what you bring to we the public.

Walter Ward · 1 year ago

Don't try, just go on and be yourself.

bd · 1 year ago

Robert, you MUST have your editorial team put together a video of Colbert's most egregious (and hilarious) overstatements throughout the years. Stay on the offensive, Robert! Don't give him a chance to go after you and hit him where it hurts--his funnybone! (groan)

Kathleen · 1 year ago

Make sure you ask him about how McCain has Crashed 5 multimillion dollar Aircraft and somehow he walks away while the Taxpayers always have to foot the bill.
We can not have our next president be as reckless with our Country as McCain has been throughout his career.
I really like Roxanne's approach ...Well gosh steve , May I call you steve and then talk about what ever you want.
Oh yeah dont forget he is probably reading all these quotes to so he can "One up ya" Have fun and stay focused.

Keith · 1 year ago

If he asks who hates America more or something to that effect again, flip it onto him. Is being blissfully ignorant of America's decaying foreign image, crumbling economy, merging of church & state, and allowing big business to run amuck while the bulk of our citizenship is victimized means that you love America, then sign me up as a hater too. Robert, keep fighting the good fight. Guys like you & Mike Moore are my heroes and I hope to able to work with you someday.

Bill · 1 year ago

Possible question:

"You're just jealous that McCain has Pallin
and you don't, aren't you?!"

KC · 1 year ago

No one nails the Colbert! He is the hammer and will bring down the reign of pain!

Ask him why Sarah is sooo cute, gosh darn it. Wink

Richard Duffy · 1 year ago

Assume he'll ask "what will you do when the communists take over the US because of your films and you can no longer make these outlandish mockumentaries?

Bob · 1 year ago

Just be sure to not get angry or lash out.
Just laugh along with the audience, then state your case.
We all know Colbert is in complete 100% Agreement with you. His sarcasm and wit are meant to poke fun at the right.

Rob · 1 year ago

Ask him why he has a picture of Sarah Palin in a bikini in his dressing room.

deb · 1 year ago

Why don't you follow Palin's example of how NOT to answer a question!? "I'm not going to answer your question, instead I'm going to talk directly to the American people. <look directly="directly" at="at" camera="camera" and="and" insert="insert" cutsy="cutsy" grin="grin" and="and" wink="wink" here="here">" She got rave reviews for not answering ANY questions. Have fun!</look>

funkspiel · 1 year ago

We are coasting to victory, just don't fuck it up!

You can tell them about "plaster on the makeup with a trowel you cunt", they will just beep the cunt out.

Marty Cann · 1 year ago

Here's a question for him:

Do you really think that your audience is smart enough to know that this your show is supposed to be satire?

Scott · 1 year ago

He is going to hit you with the hate of politics. He will try to make a joke out of something said and accuse you of "Not getting the joke, 'cuz everyone knows liberals can't take a joke." haha You could then say "oh well we have been laughing at the biggest joke in history for THE LAST 8 YEARS!"

Richard · 1 year ago

You will never be able to compete with Colbert. He is a professional comedian with the persona of a right wing conservative. So do not compete; perform. One thing actors are taught about performing is that you must imagine your audience in their underwear or naked which relives you of stage fright.

The smartest thing for you to do besides being yourself is not to take his show seriously and use self deprecating humor because you can not keep up with his humor. And lastly...Good Luck.

Rebecca · 1 year ago

Steer the conversation to what all Americans should be talking about: 'How do we stop the Republican political model of fear and hate to control global wealth?

Emlyn · 1 year ago

Ask Stephen:

1. Who loves America more? John McCain or Stephen Colbert?
2. Who sounds most like a friendly terrorist? William Ayers or Sarah Palin?
3. Who is the bigger liar? John McCain calling himself as a maverick or Sarah Palin calling herself a hockey mom?
4. Who will win the presidency? Obama in the court of public opinion, or McCain in a court of law?
5. Who will win "victory" in Iraq? The USA because they have bigger hearts, or the USA because they have bigger guns?

Robin Ramirez · 1 year ago

Just have fun. Remember You can say anything you want!! Colbert just wants laughs!! You can add Madonna to the list I hear she is doing a great job of bashing Mccain and Palin at her shows. Hey maybe she should run for VP.

Good luck!!

Charley James · 1 year ago

The first thing to remember is that Colbert's job is to get laughs. He does this by parodying the right wingnuts on Fox, etc. So don't take his questions too seriously and turn them around on him when appropriate. And remember that under that Brooks Bros. Republican suit beats the heart of a New Jersey liberal.

So, for example, with the question about "who hates America more, you or Michael Moore," turn it around and reply "Michael and I discussed this and we decided you do." It will get a laugh from the studio audience and probably from Colbert. Then you can go on to make whatever point you want to make in your answer.

Possible answers to your possible questions:

"Tell McCain To End Politics Of Hate" spot:
Possible Q - Isn't the politics of hate part of America? Why are you against America and its great traditions and institutions?

A - Well, slavery and not letting women vote were once great traditions in America. You probably think we should've maintained them, as well. But in 2008, with all of the problems facing the country ....

"John McCain's Rage Is A National Security Issue"

Possible Q - People said they voted for Bush because they felt like they could have a beer with him and look what that got us. Isn't it time we have a president who bellies up to Putin and screams in his face until he turns red?

A - At John McCain's age, he shouldn't do anything that gets him so worked up he turns red in anger or anything else. The real point is ...

"McCain's YouTube Problem"

Possible Q - Isn't it unfair to expect McCain to understand YouTube and the internet? Aren't you discriminating against him because of his age?

A - Well, I understand McCain has been taking internet lessons from Sen. Ted Stevens, so he should understand how the tubes work by now. But a man who is so out of touch with the real world that he doesn't "get" YouTube probably shouldn't be around anything electronic -- including the big red button.

Hope these help and give you a few ideas of your own.

Charley

cheryl · 1 year ago

My advice to you is just grin and bare it....:)

Ivan · 1 year ago

You cannot and will not nail the Colbert: it doesn't work that way. Just go on the show, take your lumps (because they are all tongue in cheek, anyway), laugh with everyone else, and go home. He is the cannon, you are the fodder. If you can't stand the sound of the explosion, stay home. On that show, even the good die young and that is why we watch.

S. Lee Holt · 1 year ago

Repeat from another poster: If he really blind sides you, tell him that YOU INVOKE THE McBUSH-PALIN RULE; Then just say whatever you want, regardless of the question. He will enjoy the moment.

Hannah · 1 year ago

First you look right into the camera and announce you will not be answering his questions but will be talking directly to the american people....

stephen will do all he can to help you promote your vids with his truthiness, relax and enjoy

Marty Cann · 1 year ago

oops!

What I meant to write is

Do you really think that your audience is smart enough to know that your show is supposed to be satire?

Tim Reppert · 1 year ago

Just laugh and have fun, but maybe try to nail down where he stands.
Would he hire McCain to run his business, would he trust Palin with his kids?
How many failed policies does it take to turn a Republican who thinks he's a Democrat into a Democrat who thinks he's a Republican or vise versa?

David Winkelman · 1 year ago

Ditto earlier comments re having your questions of your own. It's long been known by "influence" professionals -- which you know all too well, that whoever asks the question is (at least momentarily) is in control). So of course you want to be prepared with at least several of your own zingers which are clever enough you get HIM to laugh. Turn your conversation into play.

Maybe something like: Don't you want your day of anointing to be a national day of remembrance? When was that exactly?

Has anyone ever counted the number of times you straightened your tie or jacket or stack of papers on the show? Are you concerned that over the course of a minute something has popped out of place?

Then gently, generically and non-aggressively, slip into a question about the issue McCain's first wife.

It's going to be pretty tough to beat Colbert at his own game, but you can certainly play along with him.

Terrific that you're asking for input this way. You're getting great answers, too.

don from saint louis · 1 year ago

ask him "Stephen, what do you think Putin really sees when he rears his head as he flies over Palin's home in Alaska? A dinosaur or a pile of burning books? both?"

Ali · 1 year ago

Do a Sara Palin on him: say I am not going to answer the kind of questions YOU and the Media ask but will answer the questions American People (and for good measure you may add "and GOD")want me to ask and answer, and then go ahead and say whatever you want to say regardless of olbert's questions or remarks. Don't let him change the dynamics!

Wes · 1 year ago

Only God can help you now. By the way, God is Catholic!

elenor Kovachevich · 1 year ago

Please bring up the Palin Utube of her attending the 2008 Independent Conference in Alaska supporting the secessionists.
This was aired for a second on CNN on the 14th around 2:30pm and never, yet, seen again.

David · 1 year ago

Remember that Colbert is on your side, but his job is to make people laugh. So, if I were you, I'd roll with the punches and try not to be too serious, because he won't be. Just having you on his show is good PR for you and your films and for our cause. So, have fun, joke with him, while at the same time promoting your films (and website) and, of course, what you have to say about John McCain.

sela · 1 year ago

HE'LL ASK why you are not making a film about all of o'bama's terrorist connections like bill ayres.

David Majors · 1 year ago

Here's a question for Stephen.

Do you think Sarah Palin has done any other position besides missionary?

Louis Nardozi · 1 year ago

Don't try to nail him, that's right. Instead, find a way to mention his emmys and peabodies. That'll let you segue into whatever clip you want to pimp. Also, set him up to make fun of McCain by saying Ron Paul would have done a lot better. He wants to zing republicans now that McLoser is running.

cybercitizen · 1 year ago

Ask Stephen Colbert why McCain is pals with reformed ex-felon Charles Colson. Aren't all reformed ex-felons untouchables, according to how the Republicans treat Ayers? Or, are some ex-felons more equal that other ex-felons? Are ones who want to maintain monopoly power at all costs more equal than the ones who want to disrupt the power structure?

Cathy · 1 year ago

On issues of international relations, tell him you can see the UN from your house.

Margaret · 1 year ago

When someone asks a left-field question, I just smile and ask them why they think "I hate America?" Then they either ignore the question or I've taken over the conversation as they attempt to answer the question.

Jeanine · 1 year ago

Don't try to compete with Colbert. As has been said, he is a professional comedian. He/they may edit the remarks. He is giving you and our cause tremendous exposure. Laugh at the jokes, even at your expense. Don't try to come back with one-liners.

Jo Hurley · 1 year ago

I agree with the posts below re: Palin. Turn to the camera and say what you want.

Always keep on the offense. If he says something like who hates America more again - turn it around and say "you do. You are mocking them and I am trying to bring important news to their attention."
He will probably go with stuff to do with Palin ie. hunting, shot-gun wedding and stuff with McCain ie. war hero. Would you die for your country or what would you do in a POW camp? Maybe if McCain had watched his temper in the POW camp he might have gotten out sooner for good behaviour.

wildwilly1111 · 1 year ago

You do realize that if Colbert gets wind of this, you're toast...

alex tee · 1 year ago

Don't be a fool. Colbert is on our side! Play into his shtick!!! HE is on our side!

Dave · 1 year ago

From my perspective, all of Stephen's viewers take what he says as tongue in cheek. I say... have fun. What's the goal? Certainly not to swing voters in a short Colbert sound bite. Think of the funniest answers. AND mention BraveNew Films and the number of viewers as often as possible. Drive people to your films.

Rei · 1 year ago

Q. "Steven, is the America Sarah Palin sees that the rest of us don't the one without Alaska?"

Donna · 1 year ago

I agree, just be yourself. You can't outsmart Stephen Colbert. He is NOT a Republican and is secretly hoping you WILL be able to score points. If he asks a question you can't answer like "Why do you hate America?", just laugh and make a statement related to the question. "Because I love my country, I work hard to preserve what freedoms we still have."

Thom Pike · 1 year ago

If he asks a Why/who hates America? question, ask him: "I don't know Stephen, why do you hate all Americans who make less money than you do?"

And remember: he's just playing the part of a bone headed O'Riley clone, and his priorty is 'the funny'.

He lets his guests get their point across as long as they are brief . . . and funny.

Oliver Stone did fine just playing along. That might be harder for you, since you havn't done a bio-pic of Bush.

tp

Ken Gamble · 1 year ago

Sorry, Robert. You can't nail Stephen. He is America!

But when he speaks you should softly chant louder, louder, louder until he pulls a "Palin" and ask you to stop protesting.

Ken G

pete · 1 year ago

i watch BNF and i watch the colbert report every day. the last thing you want to do is think about "nailing" colbert cuz it ain't going to happen. if you're on the attack there's no way to get your point across on that show.

Barbara · 1 year ago

These posted comments are great. I agree, just have fun. But, ask him for me, why are Repubs getting away with accusing the Dems of everything they are, and everything they're doing? And, if Rove knows that Palin's crew are Anti-American secesionists, then, how come he wants her in the White House?

Steveo · 1 year ago

Which terrorists are you palling around with now?

Doesn't "Palin" sound and look a lot like "Palling", as in palling around?

What do you and Michael Moore do at home?

Call Colbert out on his "gotcha" questions.

trailerparkqueer · 1 year ago

Last night, he asked Stiegletz if he was jealous of Krugman and if he felt he deserved a piece of Al Gore's Nobel Prize. It's just going to be a comedic free-for-all, and I think you should wear a blue bear suit with Obama on the tummy - think the Obama carebear... it'll throw him completely off and you'll both get laughs.

TPQ

Lisa Zeiner · 1 year ago

Colbert doesn't see color, but does he see culture, sex or race. McCain defends the use of the term "gooks", he also believes women need more education which is why they don't get paid as much and also women like being raped as he so eloquently put it in his gorilla rape joke. Is this how he would want his wife or asian people to be thought of? Are these his ideals for a successful Colbert Nation? He will try t make you seem unamerican, but is McCain's America what we want?

Constance · 1 year ago

Just stick with facts; Repeat the facts; "the war in Iraq is costing us 250 million $$ each day. We were lied to about the reasons we went into Iraq and that Iraq was going to pay for it's own reconstruction. Our economy is financially devasted; people are loosing their retirements; Ask if we have heard any anger about any of this from John McCain.. NO.. because remind the audience that McCain voted just like BUSH wanted, over 90% of the time. Why won't he discuss a higher tax on the very wealthy while the middle class is sinking and the poor are going with bare bone assistance, IF ANY.. Remind the audiance that McCain is 72 and has had 4 bouts with melanoma.. Then speak about Palin. Tell the audiance what her affiliations are; Organizations:
Member, Alaska Miners Association
Member, Alaska Outdoor Council
Member, Alaska Resource Development Council
Member, Chambers of Commerce (Various)
Member, Iditarod Parent-Teacher Association
Member, National Rifle Association
Member, Valley Hospital Association Board
Coach/Hockey Team Manager, Valley Youth Sports
Member, Youth Court Steering Committee
Former Member, American Management Association
Former Member, Salvation Army Board
Wasilla Bible Church. Explain that the population of Alaska is 2/3rds the size of San Francisco county. In other words; stick to facts and speak mainly to the audiance. Use this opportunity to help our cause and further Obamas chance at success. Thank you. We are with you in spirit. If you need too, bring a chart or two like Ross Perrot used to use. Help the 'average' Joe, GET IT!!!!

Ruth Friend · 1 year ago

Don't attack Colbert. He will win that. Be yourself, and stick to what you believe. Have a few talking points ready, Facts you have proven on your videos. Don't super guess him. He likes it when people are sincere and strongly honest!.

Eric · 1 year ago

It's all in good fun, so don't take it serious, but I do love when the guest gets a poke at him. Ask him if he thinks arabs can be good fathers? (from the Daily show last night).

Tom · 1 year ago

Ask him if he's read the article on McCain's history in the recent issue of Rolling Stone. I don't know how anyone who's read that article could ever consider voting for McCain.

Steve Kramer · 1 year ago

Ask Mr. Colbert if he wears boxers or briefs. Be brave.

David Lynch · 1 year ago

Mr. Greenwald,

Your reply to "Who hates America more, you or Michael Moore?" should have been to ask him an equally loaded question, something like: "Gee, Stephen, do you beat your wife in the closet or the living room?" Loaded questions like his should be exposed for what they are. They certainly don't merit a response.

I have no idea what Colbert will ask you, but if he attempts to startle you with another loaded question to which any answer would be to your detriment, challenge the question!

By the way, thanks for all you do. You're the best thing to happen to Sherman Oaks since they paved the Cahuenga Pass!

Jan Carlsson-Bull · 1 year ago

Gently but firmly take the "frame" from Stephen. Then own it. For example, in response to that earlier question, you might have said, "The question, I believe, is who loves America more, Michael Moore or me, or you perhaps, Stephen? Who loves America more? Who loves America so much that we are willing to speak hard truths to the powers that have spoken harsh lies masked as truth?

pdx bill · 1 year ago

Question: If Sarah Palin dumps her husband will you start dating her? Or does she take up with her ******* redneck almost son-in-law?

Mark · 1 year ago

That comparison to Michael Moore is both a zinger and a compliment, so my guess is that he'll lead with it again. (Wear an American flag pin, preferably a blinking one.) Colbert is not, after all, as original as he is audacious. And as for the tie adjusting and paper straightening, ask him "What about your dick, doesn't that need touching too?"

catrina · 1 year ago

Just wear a pretty dress, Robert. He seems to go easier on the girls.

Joe Heffel · 1 year ago

Don't even try to outwit Colbert. Just relax and be gracious. If you don't do improv, just say your prayers.

Dinkar Kasbekar · 1 year ago

Colbert ran in the primaries, if my memory serves me right and didn't get anywhere! My question to him would be: If he was nominated for and won the Presidency, would he have been a better or worse President than McMessiah?

Joy de Beyer · 1 year ago

Obviously he's going to tease you about this post. Surely you dont think the point is to "nail" him? The point is to play along. So a good answer to that question re who hates America more, would be "Actually, they are amateurs in hating - but they could learn a lot from Palin or McCain or their campaign handlers about how to hate really effectively."

Dawn · 1 year ago

Umm, you know that Colbert is just parodying a conservative TV host right? That he is really making fun of them? Sometimes I do wonder if he remembers that as he seems to be making fun of conservatives more than making fun of the hosts themselves. Just don't take him or yourself too seriously.

Dick Johnson · 1 year ago

Ask him: Who's the bigger joke? You, or John McCain?

Karen Redding · 1 year ago

Hi,

I know this is too late, but if anyone ever asks you again who hates America more, I'd say "neither of us hates America. We are doing what we do because we love our country and want to do what we can to keep our country from going further down the drain by calling attention to corruption and lies that are damaging the fabric of our democracy. Perhaps the question should be which of us loves our country more."

My thoughts are with you as you continue to do your good work.

neil cosentino · 1 year ago

Ask about Todd Palin...and the Alaskan Separatists movement... on ice?
RTe: letter to the editors... "Beyond the Palin"

John McCain
"(Bill) Ayers and Obama ran a radical education foundation together." facts: Not a radical group, and Ayers didn't run it

From: Neil Cosentino <neil.cosentino>
Date: October 15, 2008 11:25:57 AM EDT
To: susan@sptimes.com
Subject: Beyond the Palin ... suggesting that Barack Obama is not trustworthy because of a distant association with Bill Ayers - is Hit Sticking


Letters to the Editor

Re: Campaign 2008 Echo of 1970 explosion still heard today ....October 12, 2008


Beyond the Palin

If Senator McCain can not run a smart decent campaign - it is getting dirty and all over the place, how can he run the country?

He should have sent himself and Palin to the box for using Bill Ayers to High Stick Barack Obama;

making suggestive remarks about his patriotism were clearly programed, dirty, mean and inaccurate.

Who told them to spill that garbage into the campaign? or do they have the Atwater-Rove-Bush playbook of dirty tricks for bedside reading.

With Halloween coming, she should dress like the Dragon Lady in Terry and the Pirates - clever, good looking but very dangerous.

But more dangerous is Todd, her husband, her advisor and once member of an Alaskan state separatists movement;

he should dress as the Confederacy President, Jefferson Davis.

It is a nightmare to imagine the two of them near the Whitehouse.

neil cosentino
Florida Blue Dog Democrats for Obama
and
Vietnam Combat Veterans for Obama

708 S. Davis Blvd.
Tampa, FL 33606
neil.cosentino@verizon.net
813-251-4669</neil.cosentino>

Greg · 1 year ago

Your turning a comedy cable show into a stumping ground. Just play along and have fun rather than have this serious attitude about yourself.

Amy · 1 year ago

Turn the tables on Colbert, ask him: who's more of a smart-ass, you or Bill Maher?

MalamuteMan · 1 year ago

Try answering his question WITH A QUESTION:

Who is more of an ass, you or Bill O'Reilly?

marian · 1 year ago

First of all, don't go in there thinking you can nail him. He is a master trickster. So if it's about a power grab, he will win. Second, you might want to watch Winona LaDuke's visit with Colbert. She struck a nice balance and somehow kept her power by being a trickster herself....

Lee Vozel · 1 year ago

Whatever question he asks, you should begin your answer with: "Well, Steven, as you know, I'm a hockey dad AND a soccer dad."

Carl Williams · 1 year ago

I agree with S. Lee Holt and think you should pull a "Sarah Palin" and stick to your talking points no matter WHAT he asks.
Example ....Colbert: "Why did the liberals destroy America?"

Greenwald: It's important to examine McCain's role as one of the Keating Five because that scandal involved deregulation of a financial industry that ended up skipping town with $200 Billion in taxpayers' money and a get-out-of-jail-free-card."

A. Starr · 1 year ago

#1 Have Fun!
#2 Know what you want to say, and say it (concisely)
#3 Tell the truth
#4 Be Funny
#5 We are all with you!

Molly · 1 year ago

No matter what the question is, end every answer with, "...because that's what America's craving right now!" and wink uncontrollably a la Sarah Palin.

John Rapach · 1 year ago

Colbert, you are actually actively swaying the people to Obama.

Colbert: " How?"

There is no comic relief for voting Republican, except for Sara claiming to see Russia from her back porch of her very plush abode in Alaska. Who paid for this mansion?

Steveo · 1 year ago

Oh, yeah... he may ask you what you're so afraid of that you had to ask your entire mailing list to help you.
(That's not meant to be snarky... he may actually ask that!)

Richard Trillo · 1 year ago

Yes, make him laugh (at himself?) and make the viewers laugh. Only answer the questions you want to. Try to convey the idea that the US needs to stop worrying about being proud of itself and should concentrate on making the rest of the world proud of the United States. This is a great opportunity, so let's not forget future generations.

cybercitizen · 1 year ago

www.slate.com says that "As special counsel to the president, he [Colson] was Richard Nixon's hard man, the "evil genius" of an evil administration. According to Watergate historian Stanley Kutler, Colson sought to hire Teamsters thugs to beat up anti-war demonstrators, and he plotted to raid or firebomb the Brookings Institution. He eventually pleaded guilty to scheming to defame Daniel Ellsberg and interfering with his trial. In 1974, Colson served seven months in federal prison."

Plotting to firebomb the Brookings Institution says to me that Colson was an ex-terrorist.

Caroline · 1 year ago

Well, firstly, he's not out to "get you". It's obvious he will try to draw something personal out of you, but I think we know that he is a fairly intelligent person and will make a mockery out of McCain if only by elicting the facts, as Colbert does so well. I think he'll ask you questions similar to: "What or who do you fear most? McCain, Sarah, or Fox News?" The first has a nasty temper, the second- let's not go there, and Fox is a dirtier than my nephews diapers.-- Something like this. You should just laugh off the loaded question and answer a specific part of the question by iterating what exactly it is you're answering.

Malcolm Clark · 1 year ago

hey man--you'll never nail Colbert if you take yourself or the interview too seriously. For homework--take some lessons from Oliver Stone or Will Smith (search for their interviews on colbertnation.com) among few others who have successfully nailed Colbert. Best tack is to take on his faux conservative rhetoric and see whose tongue is ends up further in their respective cheek. Slip in a sincere message when possible, but remember you'll only have a window of a few syllables at a time. Good luck Bob--we're with ya. Looking forward to the show! -mc

Redshift · 1 year ago

You and Stephen have something in common -- putting McCain video out on the web. Be sure to compliment the John McCain Green-Screen Challenge! And since the purpose of the challenge was to make McCain seem exciting, you can ask Stephen whether your films or the ones from his fans did a better job of that.

Stephen · 1 year ago

I think you are missing the point, just have fun. Colbert is a caricature of the bellicose jingos on Fox. He isn't hurting your case by being obnoxious...no pressure

communicationtopics.com

Todd · 1 year ago

He'll probably just make fun of you for asking the internet how to outwit him.

Loic Diels · 1 year ago

If you have the chance to ask him a question then play along and ask something such as:

What can fellow conservatives do to bring back mob justice?

that should work well with the politics of hate video and give him an opening to satire McCain

Eric Stacey · 1 year ago

Robert, I'm surprised. If a simple question like "Who hates America more, you or Michael Moore?" threw you, you shouldn't be making TV appearances. I think the honest answer is always the best answer. Stephen has a TV persona that works for him. You are an honest broker. You have nothing to worry about. As long as you have the facts behind the videos you produce on the tip of your tongue, you'll do fine. Don't worry!

D. H. Strong · 1 year ago

Do what Jane Fonda did and sit on his lap and whisper in his ear.

Irksome · 1 year ago

Jump the gun. As soon as you're introduced, ask HIM "So, Stephen, who do you think hates America more, you or Rush Limbaugh?"

Einar · 1 year ago

You do realize that Colbert is a satiric humorist? He presents a characature of the far right, and has been very effective in pointing up the inanity of the neocons.

If he is able to twist you up in verbal fencing, maybe you shouldn't be doing this sort of the thing and just stick with the blogging.

Seriously, if you don't have an effective and ready answer to the "You hate America" accusation, you shouldn't be out on the front lines. That tired old line is as old as Barry Goldwater and Colbert was probably surprised that you got tongue tied over it.

Consider Colbert to be your sparring coach. If you can't show a quick wit with him, you should stick with blogging and steer clear of one on one discourse.

Trevor · 1 year ago

How could he avoid the way Fox news went after you on McCain's health records?

Pablo · 1 year ago

Whatever he asks you, you just reply with a sharp "I accept your apology." Again and again, with inserts of your talking points. Laugh a lot and have a good attitude. Colbert is a genious and is on our side!

Thank you by the way for your great work and I will be watching!

Pablo

Jill Carpenter · 1 year ago

Crazy man, you can't nail Colbert! He's on your(our) side, anyway--that's why he's invited you, to give you some publicity. Just enjoy. Laugh a little.

Aaron Roers · 1 year ago

Those who make peaceful revolutions impossible, will make violent revolutions inevitable.

mabian · 1 year ago

I definitely agree to go the Sarah Palin route as suggested by Roxane:

"I suggest you take the approach Sarah Palin took-instead of answering any of Colbert's questions just say your going to take a different approach and talk directly to the people about what a maverick you are, "well,gosh Steve. May I call you Steve?" and then just talk about whatever you want to talk about! So then you won't be stunned by any question he asks because it really doesn't matter. Pretend he's not even there."

Also you can---conspiratorially---let Colbert know that Pappa Bear has been secretly working with you all along on your films and that you have advised him on how to create the image of a completely whacked, rabid television host so the public is repelled by the right wing. This is called "The Greenwald-O'Reilly Surge" and it's working. The GR Surge (as it is known to the cognoscenti) is the principal cause of McCain's missteps and Obama's meteoric rise to power. If he counters with something out of left field, repeat the Palin logic and make sure he understands that you are controlling Sarah Palin like a puppet to destroy the right. The Palin Project, or the Greenwald-Palin Surge, is working! You have other surges, for example, the October Surprise Surge will be revealed in due time.

Keep it as goofy as possible.

In the end, it really makes no difference what you say; it's great publicity and it is comedy after all. Nevertheless, Colbert is BY FAR the toughest interviewer I have ever witnessed. His interviews with those "Know your District" representatives was bloodthirsty carnage. Extremely entertaining.

Judi · 1 year ago

Why does McCain hate America? His pick of Palin shows a total disrespect for Americans. Here is another thought why not ask about the rape kit charge for the victims, ordered by Palin during her four years in Wasilla? Disgusting! Or how about McCain's plans to cut 1.3 trillion from the Medicare budget. I would not let Colbert get a word in at all.

Patty · 1 year ago

Robert, be prepared to define political "gadfly" for Mr. Colbert so he can understand your role which is Just Like His! Give him lots of examples and don't be modest!

Karen · 1 year ago

Obama - Great president or the greatest president???

Chris Tennant · 1 year ago

Since I do not have cable television and thus am not very familiar with Colbert's approach, I'm afraid that I cannot help Greenwald nail him. Moreover, attempting to "nail" a comedian is a very tricky and dangerous gamble. Even if you succeeded, it could backfire on you. However, I can tell you how to nail the election, which is what we are all most concerned about.

First of all, as a social scientist and someone who has also been involved with film as a means of social analysis AND change, I want to commend Greenwald on the outstanding videos he has produced which reveal the facts behind the lies that are being propagated on television by the mainstream media, in general, and the Republican party and its candidates, in particular. What can you, Greenwald, do to counteract this? Put these very same campaign videos that you have made for circulation on the internet on TV, if it is at all possible! Surely, Barack Obama would endorse such a measure and the timing would be perfect. EVERYONE in this country needs to see those videos, and Obama's direct endorsement would help him nail the election! In fact, he should address some of the issues raised in those videos directly on the campaign circuit.

Chris Tennant
UN Consultant and former Programme Officer,
MENA and CEE/CIS Regions

Rich · 1 year ago

Get him on your side first.
Ask him to be in your newest video.
"Colbert Nation Truthieness for Goodieness"
He'll be your best cheerleader.

Ken from DWT · 1 year ago

Hey, Robert, as many commenters have already suggested, HAVE FUN with him.

I don't think I saw your earlier appearance, but I hope you busted a gut laughing at the Michael Moore question and then explained how much you have to love America to do what you and MM do.

One thing I would keep in mind is that Stephen is the one who gave us the concept of TRUTHINESS, as the common public substitute -- especially on the Right -- for truth. What is your work about (and MM's too) if not trying to bludgeon truthiness with truth?

I promise to watch this time!

Ken

cybercitizen · 1 year ago

Ask Stephen Colbert where did his southern accent go? He grew up in North Carolina, and journalism school ironed out his accent. If he explains why. Come back with...but it didn't change Palin's.

S. McVicar · 1 year ago

You'll do great! Stay strong and laugh hard!

:)

Carl · 1 year ago

In all seriousness, I think you should bring up the instigation of anger by our conservative candidate's campaign. The campaign can back off and distance itself from the individual supporter's rants and raves about killing Obama and "Obama must die", but it is THEY that instigated this in their supporters. Does the conservitive campaign really want to be resposible for promoting that type of domestic terrorism?

Floyd B. Davis · 1 year ago

Do you remember the question: "when did you stop beating your wife ('significant other' today)? Never answer a loaded question, even on a comedy show.

Joe · 1 year ago

What cabinet position would you seek in a Palin administration?

Y · 1 year ago

It's important to point out that you do NOT hate this country and neither does Michael Moore. The injustices that are committed by the favored, the rich and powerful, Republican AND Democrats make a mockery of the Constitution and "free enterprise" with their greed and gluttony. We need to clean up this country and clean up our act, THEN help clean up the world. We are talking corruption NOT hating this country. It is important to be critical for the purpose of changing for the better. If we do not, we become complacent. HOWEVER, it is also important to acknowledge this is the greatest nation on earth with the most freedoms anywhere. The youth needs to realize this. I also believe that in a society where anything can go, it will go. We need to restore and maintain our dignity and respect for one another here and around the globe.

Dave Bazinet · 1 year ago

Robert,
ONE QUESTION.
IF..McCain is SUCH a MAVERICK why didn't he run AGAINST Bush in 04???????
Love your work.
Dave

M Davis · 1 year ago

First, don't forget that Stephen Colbert really is on our side. He really is trying to give you the opportunity to state your case. The best answer to that last question he asked about you and Michael Moore, would have been to say that you both actually LOVE America and that's why you do what you do. DO NOT try to "nail" Colbert because even though he plays a blowhard, he's a good guy, and the audience will turn on you if you try to make him the bad guy. He's giving you the platform to "nail" the real bad guys (McCain/Palin). If you keep your focus on them, Colbert will be your ally.

kt · 1 year ago

The best advice I can give someone appearing with Colbert is

1) Remember His Background is Long Form Improv. What does that mean? Well, the central principal of this form of improv is "Yes, and..." which means (roughly) that each of you accepts the others' premises and combines it with your own. This makes the "best" answer to "Who hates American more" something on the order of "I hate America more. All these civil liberties and constitutions definitely get in the way of order."

2) Remember Stephen is a deep-dyed, Blue as they come, liberal. You don't want to make *him* look bad. You want to work with him to make the Bad Guys look bad.

3) There's no one better at making the Right look like total idiots than Stephen Colbert. Don't worry about defending yourself. Take a lot of deep breaths; remember he doesn't want to attack *you*, he's using you as a gateway and a partner in attacking the worst aspects of the Right Wing. Play along and let him work.

Katie

Marcia · 1 year ago

It's Halloween, dress up like Palin or First Dude.

Unruhly · 1 year ago

Take the Oliver Stone approach. ultra-neo-conservative outlook. you could tell it took Colbert completely by surprise and got lots of laughs (hence the ultimate goal for Comedy Central). As others have said, above all be relaxed and have fun!

jim · 1 year ago

Which side of does Hitlers' Fascism does McCain/Palin represent?

Greg · 1 year ago

Two simple things:

1) Watch Oliver Stone's interview from last night. Brilliant. He did exactly what Colbert does: postured and spoke 180 degrees out of phase with his values - calling Bush a great man, and a great president, who's just hitting his stride as a leader, and calling for the invasion of Iran and Venezuela.

So why not repudiate your own work and acknowledge that what America really needs is 8 more years of the Bush/Cheney mojo? They deserve the chance to finish what they started, but that pesky constitution prevents it, so John McCain and Sarah Palin are as close as America can come to 8 more years of magic and mayhem.

2) As Lee Holt said, when all else fails, invoke the PALIN DOCTRINE and change the subject!

robert thomas · 1 year ago

you are a brave soul, indeed! Expect to be asked about Senator Obama's childhood "consorting with terrorists."

prudence faxon · 1 year ago

As much as I like your work, what you sent us is just an over-the-top email filled with self-promotion. You not only advertise your next appearance on the Colbert Report and show a video of your last one, within the text you "bury" your videos. As I said, you do great work ... but please don't OVERPROMOTE yourself! It detracts from the respect I have for your films. And as far as asking for "help" you know how to handle yourself. If you use, help from these posts, then as a professional you should credit these people!

Steven B. · 1 year ago

Ask Stephen if he is related to Sarah Palin because they both have a hatred for bears. Ask him if he would hunt bear (not bare) from a plane if Palin invited him to.

Jim Yost · 1 year ago

Hi Robert,

Colbert will no doubt bring up Sarah Palin as a distraction and because it's juicy gossip which his viewers love. Keep in mind that he's one of the elite puppets, if he wasn't he wouldn't be where he is and running is mouth to no effect.

If I had a chance to get on national TV I'd focus on hammering the traitorous media, over and over with a few simple points, not too offensive but unrelenting none the less. Waking people up to the fact that it is the media that is ultimately to blame for all the current fiasco (mostly because they sold us the Bush/Cheney cabal)is the best hope for creating any real 'change'.

If you can, rub Colbert's nose in his own doo doo by bringing up the point that he doesn't have a real job and watch him squirm.

See ya,

Jim

Marilyn · 1 year ago

I'm surrounding you in an energetic eggshell of safe, wise white light. You will intuitively reach for the right answer and the right tone for each question. I'm visualizing you exhaling a sigh of deep satisfaction, visible to all of us, as the interview concludes.
Thank you for all you are doing.
Best~
Marilyn

Della · 1 year ago

You could do what Palin did and just answer your own questions and ignore him entirely. Or do what Jane Fonda did and sit on his lap. That is the only time I've seen him rattled. Good luck!

lokisez · 1 year ago

I agree with the brothers and sisters who recommend that you just have fun. It's comedy!

Lee · 1 year ago

He's going to ask you about this posting - your wanting to nail him.

Carol · 1 year ago

I think he'll ask about the great McCain Rage videos. Go for that.

Mark Cartwright · 1 year ago

Do NOT ask Colbert anything. Right up front: "Stephen, since you pretend to be Bill O', I'm going to be Sarah Palin tonight. I'd be Jane Fonda, but your wife wouldn't think that was funny a second time. N o, I will not sit on your lap and please stop staring at my chest!" Just be Sarah Palin. It would be hilarious satire against the nut fringe that supports the likes of a Sarah Palin. Turn the tables on Colbert. You CAN do it.

linda jerling · 1 year ago

Colbert needs a knock to the ground.
I'm not sure if he will let you get a question in - he is a pompous a##.
I think he may attack the Youtube nightmare ad but then again we all need to watch the debate tonight and maybe que off that.

Then again you could have fun and use suggestions of some posters like : WINK a lot, say ''you betcha'', ''joe sixpack'', and ''country first''.

Or just call him a domestic terrorist .............

so much material and so little time

Jim Pharo · 1 year ago

The trick is to embrace the satirical point of view. The correct answer to the question "Who hates America more you or Moore" is "Why me, of course. I've made dozens of films and shorts and youtube videos pointing out how reckless and dangerous a McCain presidency would be. What's that loafer Moore done? A couple of home movies that he somehow got released?"

It's also helpful to go over on offense. "Who hates America more me or Moore? Why, I thought you were the one who hated liberals, hated intellectuals, hated tolerance -- and that's what America is these days -- liberal, smart, tolerant."

Y · 1 year ago

I DO realize Colbert, like Stewart, are parodying politics. However, when men and women are dying due to the lies of a maniacal Administration, the laughing has to stop at a point. This is your chance to say "stop and be serious for a moment and let's consider what the insanity that we are witnessing and being party to".

Elizabeth Schwartz · 1 year ago

You are welcome to my haiku - in case I don't win the PFAW haiku contest - as they are all germane to the McCain-Palin ticket. So here they are:

U.S. Oversight:
I can see Putin
And the moon from here

Marriage is sacred
Between two children and their
unwanted fetus

I am rational
just ask my c**t of a wife
no, not the first one

Patti Ferguson · 1 year ago

If john mccain is supposed to be against all the unjust, unpatriotic "hate" attacks that palin is saying, and all his followers are spewing, why did he not say something to the VERY first hate attack that was said to him about Hillary Clinton? The "hate" attack in which the lady called Hillary Clinton a "bitch" and the so-called maverick said nothing!

Angel Motter · 1 year ago

You should ask Stephen, "Who is the BIGGEST superhero...you, Stephen or Captain America?". Stephen has teamed up with Marvel comics, and America wants to know who the BIGGEST superhero is...him or Captain America? Keep a big smile on you face when you ask him. Stephen seems to be a lot of fun, and as you know, he is very animated...

Mary Wallace · 1 year ago

About the Q: who hates America more you or Michael Moore, tell him you and Michael are standing outside the witch's gingerbread house with bullhorns trying to keep Joe Six Pack from going in, like the poor American investors who just blew past you racing in to get some candy.

st john · 1 year ago

I would ask him, and have the answer already, how much the corp media makes from Obama's ads, and what the outcome might be if he, Obama, stopped buying ad time for one week. Could he get coverage on his responses to mcCain with "free" airtime in the form of news conferences and news releases?
I love what you and MM do for democracy.
peace,
st john

Rebob · 1 year ago

Colbert's first question will be:
"Why did you feel the need to write an email asking thousands of people what questions I'm going to ask you? Can't you nail me without the help of all your little minions?" And you should answer that it takes just such an army to go up against you, Stephen, the single greatest pundit of our times!

Bryan McGhee · 1 year ago

Hey Robert,

Ask Colbert what's helping the Democrats more: The Colbert Report or Sarah Palin?

Arthur T. Himmelman · 1 year ago

Fox News has reported that you agree with Republicans who claim that Jews are better dancers than blacks. Do you deny this?

irishmurph · 1 year ago

I'd say, I'm sorry I'm not taking questions.

martin scolnick · 1 year ago

Be aggressive and stand up to him. Stop him in his tracks when he talks over you or interrupts you. Mock him by imitating his self promoting persona or imitate him by saying the opposite of what you (we) stand for. It's all a big joke, but sometimes I wonder whether the "low information" voters get it. Good Luck :-)

M

Dorothy · 1 year ago

Bring up the AIP and the remarks of their leader re hating the U.S.
Who hates America more... the Palins, or the main stream media(for never bringing up those remarks)?

Tammy Ambos · 1 year ago

Are you serious? Colbert is really one of us, he plays devil's advocate just to show how ridiculous the opposing side is by thinking these crazy things. Just laugh it off, everyone watching is probably one of us and knows the truth. Relax.

mud · 1 year ago

Colbert wants to get a laugh. If you laugh & tell him that your philosophies seem to be similar from what he says during his program, perhaps he can help you with that tough question. After all it's his show & you don't want to upstage him (or do you?)

Mayme · 1 year ago

Republicans think corporations shouldn't pay taxes, why should we send our young men and women overseas to protect them and their businesses. Why do we have to anti up money to protect them? If they can't get along with people in other countries, that is their problem.

Cynthia Close · 1 year ago

I agree with what many others have said, that you should just relax a bit and have some fun yourself.

Right wingers are generally humorless types, they are just angry screamers like Limbaugh and Hannity. You don't want to come off as just being an angry lefty looking for a "gotcha".

Even the title of this post and your email blast strikes the wrong tone. You don't need to "nail" Colbert. He's a liberal who parodies the right wing and makes them look ridiculous. Just go along with that and you will come out ahead.

tony in durham, NC · 1 year ago

Pull a Sarah Palin and say you'll take questions but refuse to answer them.

Ask Colbert if Alaska should secede from the Union, or simply recede? As a native of South Carolina, he might "know something" about the cost/benefits of secession. Benefit: print your own worthless money. Cost: losing what little navy you have.

Ask him about the view from Fort Sumter, where the first shot was fired.

Hey, wait a doggone minute. What if COLBERT READS THESE POSTS???

I want to echo the others here and suggest you drop your serious side and enjoy the ride. And spend an hour with Obama's debate prep team. They'll have Thursday off!

Ted Vaill · 1 year ago

Colbert will ask you "Why are you criticizing a genuine American war hero?" You could say that McCain was really a passive hero when he was a POW, resisting torture and refusing to go home early when it was offered. But as the son of the Admiral heading up the Vietnam War effort in the Pacific, McCain could be a great propaganda tool of the Vietcong if he did otherwise. What should be asked is why McCain was allowed to be put in the position of being shot down over enemy territory. He should never have been allowed to fly in combat. Remember that President Eisenhower's son John wanted to serve in combat in Korea, and his father finally said that he could, but that if he ever was captured he should commit suicide rather than be captured and used as a propaganda tool. John McCain chose to be captured.

susan a · 1 year ago

Sometimes Colbert gets so carried away with his schtick that he doesn't let his guests talk - that is he makes it about Colbert and not about the topic or the guest. Bob Schieffer called him on it and he seems to be somewhat better since then. Of course it may have been part of the O'Reilley imitation to invite guests on and not let them talk, but it was annoying anyway and I'm glad he's doing less of that.

I like the suggestion about bringing up the greenscreen and asking who made McCain more exciting.

Miguel · 1 year ago

When I first saw McCain and Palin together it struck me as an unlikely couple. Then I remember when I first had that feeling, and since then I've been wondering if they are not just using the campaign as a way to get attention to a sequel of Northern Exposure, where McCain would be the saloon guy and Palin his bimbo.

Dr.Anthony R.Peluso · 1 year ago

Colbert will not be your "cross to bear" and so you can both "NAIL" McCain of the "big mC/BUSH with Lip Gloss TEAM"!!!!!!!!!

Gene W. Devaux · 1 year ago

Stephen, McCain didn't know how many homes he had, can he do the math to fix the economy? And: Sarah Palin had a half million dollar home built for her for free by a contractor that built a sports arena in Alaska, is she corrupt?

Should we give Alaska back to the Russians, but insist that they let Sarah Palin continue to govern there?

Bill Bailey · 1 year ago

Put Colbert on the defensive, just as you would Bill O'Reilly or any of his ilk. Even though it's satire, that doesn't mean you have to pull your punches. Turn the tables and start asking him questions: Are the only good Americans those that agree with a self-proclaimed messiah of the airwaves like you..? Is it permissible for an American to believe George Bush is an imbecile, based solely on the evidence, like his grades in school..? Does America really need another "C" student in charge..? Haven't we learned over the last 4 years that education and intelligence does make a difference..? Isn't John McCain too old for anything except Social Security..? What was the last thing you saw a 72-year old man do other than fall asleep in the middle of a TV show..?

Mary · 1 year ago

You need to look back at the Colbert Rpt show that had Oliver Stone on it (plugging his new movie, called W.) Oliver Stone was just on last week (very recently anyway.)
I think you should do what Oliver did and just agree with everything he says - get on his fabulously entertaining "right wing" level and seriously act like you agree with him and bring up the same types of things that he does - for instance, Say that your video about McCain's rage was just to let the people know what a tough maverick is like and how forceful he can be and that you wanted to show that he will not back down in his beliefs, even if he has to lie and cuss his way thru all of his meetings with foreign leaders. Laugh it all off, like all of his faults are good things b/c that is what Colbert will do-

Jeanne · 1 year ago

Why would you even answer such a question? Just put it back on him. Rather than defending yourself, go on the offense. It is a stupid and undignified question which dignifies no response. Let your work speak for itself!

Clay Sheffrey · 1 year ago

I would love for the issue of third party candidates to be brought up on a national show like Colbert's show. Can you please address the Nader Gonzalez campaingn and its lack of coverage in the media. Only very few outlets even acknowledge nader being on the ballot in 48 states. Nor do they ever discuss his 2 million plus followers. He wont win this year but we MUST HAVE 3rd party candidates in this country or we will all continued to be duped by what we think is a two party system but its all really the same wealthy elite group wearing different color ties. I see very few differences on the issues not being discussed by McCain and Obama, issues such as addressing the corruption that has brought our country to its knees.

Geoff Kooris · 1 year ago

He'll ask you about this whole 'nail Colbert' thing. He'll most likely ask you if this is sexual in nature, and why are you pushing a subversive gay agenda. Barring that, he'll probably ask you if you support the death penalty for treason through art.

Andy · 1 year ago

Here's a question he should ask you:

"What is responsible for more spam emails, Viagra or Brave New Films?"

Susan Chandler · 1 year ago

Answer either/or questions with yes, no, maybe or perhaps. Use the phrase "He (or she) speaks highly of you" often. If asked for any obscure historic date, answer "I believe that happened on a Tuesday, if memory serves." Slip in absurdities like "I am pro pro, and anti anti. I think the body of my work reflects as much." Be silly; Colbert is. Break a leg!

Chris · 1 year ago

I think you miss the point. Colbert does more for progressive causes through lampooning O'Reilly and Hannity than most. Be yourself. Joke with him. Roll with it. He will help you further your cause.

M. Hood · 1 year ago

Why would you want McCain to "end the politics of hate" when the polls show that his tactics are helping Obama?

Of course, the answer is that his tactics may start a race riot in the U.S.

Lisaleesa · 1 year ago

Ask Stephen if he would be interested in collaborating w/ you on the latest video you have in the works, "Bears, Why do They Hate America?" I would not try to nail Stephen, he is a political genius and recovers quickly even when he is knocked off balance, (it only lasts a second). Your videos are a great service to our country and Stephen is well aware of that. I agree w/ most of the other posters, just go w/ the flow, and be funny.

Michael Blomquist · 1 year ago

Do you believe that Bush destroyed free market capitalism and our great Nation?

If yes, How is McCain different from Bush?

If no, Where do you keep your money?

(end of questions)

Unfortunately, Obama has really let us down as well FISA, banking bail out and no discussions about restoring our Constitution or rule of law.

Please do NOT make your appearance into a partisan debate; both parties are equally to blame and unless We the People can truly Unite to stop the corruption, aggression, etc. our once Great Nation will fail.

http://market-ticker.denninger.net/archives/609...

deb santa · 1 year ago

When he asks you "any" question, compliment him on how handsome he is. Don't try to respond. You won't win. Compliment him in some way and throw him a curve ball. Don't try to have a legitimate interview. It won't happen!!!

Suzie Z · 1 year ago

Just be smart. If you know your stuff, then you will nail him. If you don't, he will nail you!! I like your shorts.(films that is)

Carolyn · 1 year ago

Maybe he'll ask you "Who hates America more, you or Barack Obama?" He might figure you wouldn't be expecting such a similar question twice. It's hard to outsmart Colbert, though; he's a true genius.

Tiare Flora · 1 year ago

I agree...have fun and enjoy the ride! Colbert is so freaking smart it's hard to predict what he will ask. However, everything he asks you is the opposite of what he's "saying". Who "hates" America really should read as who loves America more!!! Turn it around!

Chris · 1 year ago

I see our biggest problem in this way:
You're standing on a downtown sidewalk and along with many others, see a man and a woman step out of a store and he slaps her open handed, directly in the face and proceeds down the walk quickly causing him to trip, fall, and crack his head on the walk causing him to bleed profusely. How many witnesses will run to his aid? He is the rest of the worlds', perception of America. Even though he is seriously wounded and needs help to recover, others will turn away because of his bullying nature. Instead, they will run to the victim even if she was partly responsible for his anger. Until he makes a heartfelt apology to her AND the witnesses to show his remorse, he will get no help from his community or society. -
We are, like it or not, in a global community and that society saw us attack without sufficient provocation. Who will help us make ammends, McCain or Obama, Biden or Palin? Respect is hard-won and easily lost and we HAVE TO REGAIN ours. No more cowboys, we need mediators and diplomats, but most of all we need common sense. God help us!

r · 1 year ago

I can't believe how many people are attacking Colbert, calling him names and insulting his job. Don't they realize that he is a *comedian*? On the only cable channel entirely devoted to comedy? He's not anybody's puppet - he's an actor, for christ's sake. Don't watch Comedy Central if you can't take a joke!
Greenwald, just have fun no matter where he goes. I know you are intelligent enough to know better than to take him seriously.

Bill Sharfman · 1 year ago

Never, ever try to "nail" him.

You have so many options. Play all your tennis on his side of the net, lots of drop shots.

It's play. So play. Take his fantastic premise and go even farther with it into the absurd or the world of the upside down.

Make him laugh, twist his twist with something even more outrageous.

Don't be there to score points, be there to have fun. The world has turned absurd, what better place to be than with the guy who invented absurd commentary. And you can too.

Defy gravity. Bounce off a wall. Break a leg.

Michael Raysses · 1 year ago

robert, understand that it is virtually impossible to nail steve in this format: when it suits him, he will play the comic aspects of the show, which is fair enough. and when the opportunity arises to skewer you in a light that conveys some actual gravity, he will do that, too. it gives him credibility beyond his status as a comedic icon--it gives him gravitas. i would plant your tonigue firmly within your cheek for this one. the one question i would pose is the one that asks what does it say about mc cain's judgment that he would put a cypher like sarah palin a mere heartbeat from the white house?
beyond that, have some fun. your civic dues are paid in full in the public forum, my friend...

Rev Dallas Hanson · 1 year ago

Tell Him, "No King but Jesus Christ,2 Samuel8 thru 20, Luke 1:32-33. Say no to McCain, Palin,Obama,Biden, and all the rest of the cronnies.

Keeper · 1 year ago

Why don't you just confess your sins and beg for mercy ......

Richard Schmidt · 1 year ago

Ask him what he thinks of the latest Rolling Stone article on McCain, and whether he thinks it is as accurate (prescient even) as Molly Ivins' book, Shrub, which also received no attention before his election to the throne.

writerswrite · 1 year ago

Um... you are aware that Colbert is playing a character, right? He's not really conservative. He's lampooning conservatives. The thing to do is spin anything he asks you into a critique of conservatism. Use some of the same tricks he uses -- fake outrage, irony, etc.

jose · 1 year ago

He is definitively going to ask which question came on top of your post and mock you for even asking.

Then he is going to ask you: when are you going to start sueing people like Andy Martin?

Gabi · 1 year ago

Relax...if you really know Colbert, he's on your side. C'mon people, his entire show is a parody. Is this for real?

mary Brown · 1 year ago

Hello Robert,

Colbert is always doing parodies of the rightwing talking heads. That question of " who hates America more " is exactly a parody of what you see on FAUX , uh, I mean FOX News and other media shills for the right wing. What Colbert is pointing out is how the right wing bashes anyone who dares to question the Bush agenda. They try to cast doubt on your patriotism and bully you with these kinds of questions. Colbert is just showing them up for the biased shills for the right they are.
Colbert is a wicked wit and I think he is needed in these times.

Darren · 1 year ago

Oliver Stone did a very good job with Stephen the other night: he played along with him in the same vein. It's the first time I've seen somebody play the character with Colbert and it worked very well, it caught him off guard and didn't provide him with the usual ammunition to faux-attack.

Stephen D · 1 year ago

He is looking to keep you off balance.So again it might be something personal like why do you hate John McCain so much or better yet Sarah Palin.He may then comment on the YouTube videos.He equates McCain with love of country.Not true.If McCain loved his country so much then why sell out to big business?

Sally · 1 year ago

Who is Sarah Palin? Was McCain blind-sided by the climate of hate that she brought to his campaign. Were there signs that she was dangerous to his campaign and to America that were ignored by his campaign managers? Is she really good for the Republican party, really?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eniG9l_7its

http://www.salon.com/opinion/feature/2008/10/07...

Anne Cort · 1 year ago

You do know that this is a comedy show, right?

Will · 1 year ago

"You've long professed a strong hatred for bears, Stephen.
Yet you fully embrace the Bush-McCain doctrine of deregulation that has loosed the gaping, sharp toothed maw of a ravenous BEAR market. How well do you sleep at night knowing that bears are devouring your 401K? Or don't bears eat Krugerands & canned goods?

Annette Morrin · 1 year ago

Ask him where John McCain thought he was when he addressed the rally in Pa last week as "my fellow prisoners",Palin and McCains daughter were side by side and didn't blink an eye...

Andrew · 1 year ago

Definitely try and talk about McCain's penchant for "straight talk."

birgit · 1 year ago

Ask him how it feels to be stuck in the FALSE left/right paradigm.
sheeple wake up to the fact that these two politicians running are 2 piles out of the same opening....2 wings of the same buzzard
2 sides of the same yucky sandwich.Pigs w/ lipstick,terror bud's, muslim shuslim...it's all eyewash, all circus.

Jo · 1 year ago

Why would you want to nail Colbert unless you're jealous of him? He does a great job and you're lucky to be on his show. There's room in this world for both of you.

Ruth · 1 year ago

"Nail" Colbert? Where's your sense of humor? Or your love?

Take yourself a little less seriously and jump off the "oh my god they're attacking us" bandwagon. You make great videos. He makes great satire. Together you could make beautiful music, but only if you stop feeling defensive.

When completely thrown for a loop, say "Why do you ask?" or "Gee, my writers didn't give me a snappy response for that one!" Or, say, "I prefer to answer a different question" and then promote your films.

Have fun, you lucky man!!!!!!

Jacques Weissgerber · 1 year ago

Don't waste your time with that asshole.

Bill Fant · 1 year ago

Distract and attack!

Ask Colbert how many lobbyist are on his staff. You could also try accusing him of paying off someone at the National Portrait Gallery to get his painting hung in the bathroom or question his ties with Canadian rockers - Rush.

Scandalous!

Claudia Blair · 1 year ago

Congratulations! Have fun, but don't worry - Colbert nails everyone. Meanwhile:

YOU COULD SAY:
Brave New Films presents truth based on facts, an approach that McCain/Palin hasn't tried yet.

Steven, have you given Sarah the list of people you'd like her to fire? Who's at the top of that list?

Steven, is it true that the McCain/Palin campaign staff is hording medical supplies, in case they win the election?

Where is your flag lapel pin?

Steven, is the McCain/Palin campaign based on "The Manchurian Candidate"?

COLBERT MIGHT SAY:
So, what's so brave about Brave New Films? (? telling the truth?)

If your films are so great, why don't I see them in the movie theaters?

Are you the mouthpiece of liberal-commie Hollywood?

Why haven't you made more films about Obama/Biden?

Robert, I hope these help. And whatever happens, have fun and laugh. The only guests that really look bad are the ones who try to stay too serious.

Cheers! Claudia Blair

CHARLES MONELL · 1 year ago

I suggest you take Rachel Maddow - she has the greatest insight than anyone I have ever heard and seen. She would talk circles around Stephen Colbert and he would not even realize what had just happened.

Cathy · 1 year ago

Everybody knows that Stephen Colbert is a comedian... come on! This is totally fun!

Jill Farris · 1 year ago

You don't need to "nail Stephen Colbert". He is using satire to illuminate the ridiculous of the far right. He is your best ally. Your role on the show is the straight man. Answer honestly and logically and have fun on the show that is the progressive movement's best friend. You don't need to be tricky. Trust Colbert. He's our beacon of hope in these times. Satire.

RICHARD GERINGER · 1 year ago

STEPHEN is a satarist. In response to the question, who hates America more, you or Michael Moore? How about: "From all that he has done in the last 8 years, handsdown it is George Bush."
Why not bring the McCain "Rage" video and show it. It will be covered the next day on major media programs and the internet.
Why not determine what info youo want to get out on the show by using Stephen' show as a platform?

johnny · 1 year ago

Get a few responses that fit almost any whacky comment. The following could have been used as an answer for your last question, but could be customized easily for almost any question: "Stephen, anytime someone tries to tell the truth to power they get vilified, so I get accused of hating the country I love. I think we at BNF scare people because we get so many views and so many people seeing our message, that, while it's unpopular with the people in power, does expose the truth that's not getting seen in the MM and I would propose that the truth is actually a good thing in a democracy and shows a great love of country." You can use an answer like that to almost any question.

Rei · 1 year ago

You cannot and should not for that matter predict what Colbert is going to say/ask. He's a political comedian, he'll make fun of/with anyone. Like some others have said, go with it. Expect the unexpected, if you can't think on your feet in these kinds of situations then you look like Colbert wants you to. And hey, if he doesn't comment on certain parts of the videos you want other people to get out of them, ask him what he thinks anyway.

Roger Burns · 1 year ago

Answer every question with a question. Such as "Who hates America more, you or Michael Moore?" could be responded to with "What's more important is who hates your rights more, McCain or Palin?"

Peter M. Krohn · 1 year ago

How about turning it into a joke if you get caught off guard. Stumble around, ...ummm and ...ahhh and then say, "I'll get back to you on that", a la Sarah Palin, or say "Errr...I'll have my staff get back to you on that." Or, say, "gosh I can't use the prisoner of war story...well, because I'm not, nor have I ever been a prisoner of war!" Then turn to Stephen and ask him to take a quick poll of the audience to see how many remember the original question he asked you.

Bud Laurent · 1 year ago

The best answer to this sort of question (which of you hates America the most?) is "neither - I think we both love America because we want to see it live up to its potential and promise." And, by the way, you might suggest "To believe that someone who criticizes some of the things this country does (or doesn't do) hates it is the same level of thinking (or non-thinking) that leads to the love-it-of-leave-it attacks on someone's patriotism. The greater patriot is someone who cares enough to subject him/herself to such un-American attacks."

Alternatively, if you find yourself struggling for the right answer, you can always say: "Screw off, eh?"

HollySue · 1 year ago

Say "hmmm", pause, and think through a return question, such as "What specific thing have I said or done that lead you to to believe that I hate America?" If he then piles on too many examples at once, choose a good one to respond to, and illustrate that you do what you do because you care so much.

Toni · 1 year ago

Don't try to nail Colbert. He is entirely too clever. His comments most likely will be about this last debate which has not yet taken place. Pay close attention to the debate, and approach him with knowledge and HUMOR!

N.Sculerati · 1 year ago

It's silly to try to 'nail' him. Colert is all about satire, irony, and farce. The guests who come off looking great calmly shine with intelligence and benevolence, and a little satire themselves. Why do you try to destroy McCain with your propaganda? Is the sort of question he might ask. Answer- balance the scales demonstrating mendacity in a creative segment. Support Obama with the truth. Whatever you say - even i he really likes it-he will shoot back a cutting remark, answer with a friendly remark.

Greg Artzner · 1 year ago

All you have to do is remember that Colbert is a comedian whose persona is a right-wing PARODY. If he asks a stupid sounding question such as the one about you and Michael Moore, the best thing to do is LAUGH along with the audience. Then dodge the question or play along. Whatever you do, DON'T take YOURSELF too seriously. Make a serious comment or two, but mostly just try to have some fun. Figure he'll ask ridiculous, leading questions that sound like the most over-the-top thing any right-wing stooge would ask, and think on your feet.

Professor Smartass · 1 year ago

Tell him your next short will be about how McCain is now a socialist--first for Wall St (which is almost forgivable for a conservative) but now he claims to want to help actual people.

But which McCain is the real one? The decades long deregulator and screw the people guy or the new Robin Hood regulator?

larrydean · 1 year ago

Simply look at the titles of your videos..."Politics of Hate.....John McCain's rage..etc. Colberts question of who hates America more was it seems to me was a legitimate question. After all, Michael Moore has proven to everyone how much he just LOVES America. Your attacks on the political opposition border on the schizophrenic, but that's OK, as rallying people to the point of verbal abuse and attack (hello New York protesters) is patriotic, as is paying taxes.

Suzanne Gerard · 1 year ago

Just laugh a lot and enjoy his humor. Be a good sport. That's the best advice. Never try to outsmart a comedian...you just look like a jerk.
Maybe you could wink and say "You betcha" but that would be all. Just have a good time with him. If caught like with the comment who hates america most...just say...Thats really funny!

Philippe Valdois · 1 year ago

You should give him a wink!
And if he defends populism as appropriate, you might want to question his choice of wearing a suit and necktie since it goes against the image of Joe Six-pack.

More generally, he is certainly going to make jokes about YouTube itself, its choice as a medium and the level of some of the comments, etc. So you should be ready to answers whatever he throws at you concerning YouTube. It might be a good idea to pick up beforehand a few outrageous comments by illiterate right-wingers as material for "discussion".

Enjoy the show!

Andrew Courtney · 1 year ago

Stephen, Can we defeat McCain, Palin the John Wayne and Evita Peron fascists of today with humor instead of a trip on the trumbrills to their makers?

Paul · 1 year ago

A question that Colbert could ask:

You know that McCain is an older person running for President. But, your videos pick on him with his age, his health, and his rage. We know older people have these problems too; my grandfather was pretty grouchy in his day. So, Robert, why do you hate old people? :-D

Gay · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert how does he explain the nuances between Bush and McCain? Remind him that saying things repeatedly incorrect and without a basis of fact can seem illuminating to those blinded by their ignorance. Enjoy his repartee!

Anne · 1 year ago

Whatever question he poses, reply by asking him a question. Use that old Socratic method!! Outwit Mr. Colbert.

LHoney · 1 year ago

I think he will HAVE to mention Ayers. You might want to bring up Timmons running McCain's "Transition Team" (just that phrase alone should get you a laugh), since Timmons has lobbied in the past for America's friend Sadam Hussein!

jeffrey fuller · 1 year ago

why and how did you become such an asshole or dose it come nach ch a-rel 1

steve · 1 year ago

It's fun to watch Colbert stump people, but would be even more fun to stump him back. Rule 1, always answer loaded questions quickly & with the exact response he wants to get from you...THEN you simply add to it. Example: who hates America more, you or Michael Moore?
answer: Me.....long pause.....as there can't be much arguing from Stephen on this. If by america, you mean george bush's new American doctrine, then I don;'t think anyone could hate it any more than myself, if by America you mean true freedom and true liberty, than I think neither one of us hates America.

Anyways, its just an example, but it's best to give them the answer they want and then shred the logic of it rather than build a shouting match during which you get stumped.

Paul La Bonte · 1 year ago

If he asks you where you stand on Sara Palins views on global warming say,"If John McCain, Sara Palin and the rest of the right wing extremists would shut their traps less toxin gas would enter the atmosphere!"

If the question comes up about ACORN and it's nefarious activities during this election cycle say,"Seems to me that ACORN is siting these mistakes without election officials finding out on their own and to the best of my knowledge ACORN never participated in a conscious effort in caging of republican votes or the illegitimate scourging of the voter roles nationwide where the high and mighty neo-conish fascist types along with republicans were concerned. Like Karl Rove and the current resident W and his brother did to steal the election in the first place." "This could be the classic example of people in glass houses should know better than to throw stones."

Mike Wygant · 1 year ago

I think you ask him who likes Sadaam Hussein more,Don Rumsfeld or John McCain? There's that video of Rummy shaking hands with SH, and it was reported yesterday that one McCain's advisors was a lobbyist for SH!!

william f harrison · 1 year ago

You don't "nail Colbert". So don't even try. Take his comments in good humor and laugh with him. If you go on O'Reilly, nail him. Colbert is just having fun pretending he is Bill O'.

Priscilla High · 1 year ago

Ask him why 3/4 of media time focuses on McCain. Even your videos are ALL about McCain. It's as if there's only one candidate. CNN. MSNBC are mesmerized by ... I can't even say their names. I beg you:
BE MESMERIZED BY OBAMA. Talk Obama. YouTube Obama.
Don't forget the old adage, "any news is good news." If all you do is talk Mc/P That's who people remember in the voting booth.
Priscilla High

HARLAN GREEN · 1 year ago

Christ, Robert, how do you read all these comments? I would always counterattack Colbert...I didn't see your last Colbert show, but your answer should be that both you and Michael love the real America more! The right-wing version of America is a fantasy, and detail the reasons why...e.g.; they believe world isn't warming, people only marry to have children, this is only a Christian nation, the rich are the most virtuous, etc., etc. You have a great sense of irony, if I remember, so use it!

Ralph · 1 year ago

The comparison is quite clear as who hate who.
Have you ever told your viewer to say, "kill him?"
Have you ever called McCain/Palin, "Terrorist?"
Have you ever tried to link McCain to "Bin Laden?"
Have you ever call McCain, "Traitor?"
Have you had the level of hatred being demonstrated by the Republicans, period?
Or, are you just using every quote, every file tape and every action used by McCain, Palin, the GOP and reminding them?
It is not hard to connect the dots with McCain and Palin but it is very hard to prove "guilt by association" for which we are all guilty.

John Maas · 1 year ago

Before Colbert opens his mouth, ask either:
1. Who do you think loves America more - me or Michael Moore?
2. Who do you think hates America more - you or John McCain (or George Bush - pick a name...Sarah Palin would do as well)?

Glynnis · 1 year ago

Frankly, I'm fans of both you AND Stephen Colbert! The last thing you want to do is "nail" him. If you laugh along with him, he'll do everything in his power to let you shine, since he very likely supports a lot of your views.

Jay Santiago · 1 year ago

Ask him if the people of this country prefer a Tax cut or a job. No reason to have a Tax Cut without a job.
Jay

HMM · 1 year ago

You are kidding right? You can't be afraid of a comedian. I think you are taking yourself way too seriously...

Deborah · 1 year ago

Your request for postings is a genius method of ensuring people watch your Colbert episode. You are smart. Thus you'll have no problem.

Get some Bach Rescue Remedy Flower essence to relax and enjoy the publicity.
[Sigh, Stephen Colbert can tickle my funny bone any time he wants.]

GARY WINEGAR · 1 year ago

Do what Palin does, "What specifically do you mean, Charlie" Or, "I'm not going to answer that question Glen" and quickly pivot to talk about energy. Best advice is be ready for anything and closly watch Colberts word segment.

Samantha · 1 year ago

Greenwald, come on man. I know you probably sent that email out to garner witty responses to Colbert's faux diatribes against the left. But really, you shouldn't be worried if you have a coherent (and concise) perception of the election and can defend it. You're a smart man and should worry less about attacking Colbert (who, I'm sure, is sympathetic to your plight)than about getting across your message to his viewers who may not agree with you. Good luck, and have some fun with him. (Oliver STone's interview was fanstastic.)

dawn · 1 year ago

He will want to know why he was not chosen as Vice President.

Steve B. · 1 year ago

Tell him you can't stay for the interview, you have to go to Washington to fix the economy, leave and go to Dave Letterman's set...lol.

al · 1 year ago

With studio lights down, Stephen Colbert asks you "How much do we REALLY know about Robert Greenwald?"

P.S.: Have a blast.

Olympia Brown · 1 year ago

Expect to be asked, "When did you join Barack Hussein Obama's terrorist cell?"

JD · 1 year ago

Chris Tennant's post sparked an idea of where Colbert might go, to wit: "Why are you skulking around on the Internet with these films? Why don't you buy commercial TV time like every other respectable, rich fringe character seeking to influence the public?" And -- I join in Chris's hope that you do go onto TV with your films. These hideous right-wing 527s and their twisted ads are fueling the hate-mongering and the dumbing down of America.

amos · 1 year ago

ask him what country he'll move to should mccain-palin win on nov 4th --

Rob · 1 year ago

If he asks whether you or Moore hate America more, tell him neither of you hate America as much as Papa Bear (O'Reilly)

Neal · 1 year ago

Just go forth, be yourself and remember, you are there to further your beliefs, not "beat" Stephen Colbert. He plays a character on the show, always remember that.

Andy · 1 year ago

I doubt if he'll ask you about "hating America" a second time, but just in case he does here are a couple of suggestions:
1/ Smile and look REALLY confident. Then say, "Why do you ask me that", Steve?
2/ I'm sorry, Steve but you're confused.

Your answer then is:
What you're doing is confusing "this country" [jesticulate quotes] with the politicians and special interests who are only concerned about lining their own pockets and the pockets of their cronies. I LOVE this country -- it's my home [place hand over heart]. What I HATE [wave both hands in the air] are the people who are using this country (my home) [wave and point one finger] for their own selfish purposes, who are not telling the truth, and who are promoting policies that are not good for this country or its citizens. THAT'S why I do what I do! Do you understand now, Steve?

GambitLB · 1 year ago

Just tell him that your next big project is a biopic trilogy covering Barry Manilow, Tony Bennett and Don Rickles called, "The Emmy Winners Who Matter".

EDIE · 1 year ago

Ask him if he still feels, QUOTE: "the country that governs least, governs best... Therefore Iraq was a success!" and QUOTE: "Journalist are the couriers of the Republican party." He said both at a republican get together that the republicans INVITED him to (STUPID CALL!). Colbert makes fun of the Right, by pretending to be one of them. His satire is sharp, and supporting them with their ridiculous arguments shows how pathetic their agenda is. And if you get a chance, ask him how his stocks are fairing under the GOP? Is he investing in pork bellies and hoofs yet? Ask him if HE has any good stock tips, like buying lots of stock in EXXON so a sheik can buy another condo in Florida, so his MOM can retire there some day... reduced price of coarse, since her pension check got cut and Social Security was reduced under the McCain administration.

Good luck Robert, and I will be watching. Laugh him off, and don't take him too personally. It's all in fun. PS: Thursday will be the first time I will have watched the Cobert Show, so he should invite more personalities like yourself.

Anita Brown · 1 year ago

Who do you think will be a worse president John McCain or Sarah/Todd Palin (the rule together..Don't Cha Know!lol)?

Doug Ray · 1 year ago

Tell Colbert that there are 1000 polar bears headed his way and that they are being guided through Alaska by his adopted son , the eagle Stephen Jr. They have to avoid Palin the Killer. The bears are pissed and Stephen Jr. is shamed by his belicose right wing views.

Elinor Craig · 1 year ago

Why oh why is everyone talking about Ayers and no one is talking about Keating?

Bring that one up.

CharlieL · 1 year ago

Robert:

Item 1: Tell him your :60 entitled "BEARS: The Evil Menace" is almost finished (if you can't bring one with you).

Item 2: Tell him that you do what you do to DISTRACT "those pesky Liberals who still believe in facts".

Item 3: Tell him that the "truthiness" of the situation is that you just do these little videos in the hope that Cindy McCain will give you a genius grant or that Sarah Palin will cheat on Todd and her other lover with YOU.

Item 4: You saw the light at an Obama rally and were "called by the lord" to make the videos you make.

Have fun.

It's close enough to the election that Stephen will be careful not to put anything out there that might be used against the left or Obama.

Albert Colone · 1 year ago

Have fun on the Colbert Report. You may wish to ask Colbert if his heroes, bush and McCain, along with their right wing-conservative anti people Republican collaborators, facing say a crisis in Social Security, would have proposed a bailout similar to the $1 trillion bank bailout?

Rashid Patch · 1 year ago

If Colbert tries anything like the "Who hates America More..?" tactic, immediately ask him, "Is it really true that you are no longer paying your dues for membership in the Klu Klux Klan?" And after that, no matter what he says, just keep asking, "Now, what about your Klu Klux Klan dues, are you still paying for your membership or not?"

Liz · 1 year ago

The only time I witnessed Colbert at a loss for words was when Jane Fonda jumped up and kissed him! So, not that you should do that but some sort of surprise like that might fluster him.
Just a thought

marsha · 1 year ago

Ask Steven about 2 things:

1. His ongoing relationship with G. Gordon Liddy, and

2. William Timmons, the Washington lobbyist who John McCain has named to head his presidential transition team.

Jackie Parker · 1 year ago

Take a lesson from Obama. Brush off the insults as if they are flies and focus on your concerns for our nation in the twenty-first century. Talk about the importance of reason and calm in the midst of crisis and change. Remind him that many people fear change and are using Obama as a focus of their fears. Tell him that once Obama is president all those who are afraid now will benefit from his farsightedness and understanding of the real problems in our country. Call Colbert on his fear-mongering and ask him to come from his higher self.

wuddaworld · 1 year ago

Oh, heavens. All you can do now is pray he doesn't mock you for seemingly being freaked out enough about it to ask US what do.

Bill F. · 1 year ago

Hey Robert,
Thanks for all the great information via your videos. I send them to all my republican family members! What Colbert meant was "who loves America more?" He's so dry, you never know when he's being sarcastic or serious. You don't have to prepare. Just twist you mind a bit, so you'll be in sync with Stephen. The wonderful thing about the Colbert Report is that stupid republicans watch it thinking he's on their side! What I do is ask for divine help in situations like this. i.e. "what would you have me say, and to whom?" Your answers will be BRILLIANT!
- Bill F.

Jack · 1 year ago

With reference to some of the videos, I would say that you have a valid point on the "Politics of Hate" but "McCains Rage"? If that is the best you can do for showing rage you are a leeeeetle bit tooooo sensitive and need to get out into the real world more.

Actually I really like Ruth's response of "I prefer to answer a different question!" then wave your two fore fingers at him and wink. That should be good for a laugh!

Keep up the good work.

Jeff Weinberger · 1 year ago

Robert, you're supposed to get nailed! It's supposed to make us laugh. Get it? It's satire! In fact, it's brilliant satire. You're attempt to inject your own (even mock) agenda into this deflates the whole concept. When you're in Colbert's playground you just play along and have a good time fer chris'sake! This is an escape from the serious and you're attempting to f... it up!

S. Spacek, MPA · 1 year ago

Why must South Carolina(Colbert's home state), and other Southern States, be amongst/remain the WORST littered American states?
Litter breeds vermin and diseases and harms kills
BOTH humans and wildlife.
In 2005, at least 18 South Carolinians were killed in vehicle accidents due to debris/littering (Source: NHTSA, American State Litter Scorecard)
This will definitely catch Colbert offguard.
No humor in dead South Carolinians killed by litter.
Good Luck.

Thelonious · 1 year ago

Simple, man: pull a Palin. "I'm not going to answer the question, I'm just gonna talk about what I wanna talk about," and then wink at the camera.

JAYBOD · 1 year ago

Whoa there... You are forgetting the art of defocusation... Slap them in the face and they won't feel you hand in their posket.

Watch out for the atttck to come from below the belt... "Hey Mr. Greenwald. your "fly is open" are you trying to SCREW AMERICA???"

Do not fall back into that liberal, left-wing wweakness of respecting your opponent by turning the other cheek. If anything..."MOON HIM AND OFFER BOTH CHEEKS"!!!

You can also take him by surpeise by "KEEPING YOUR EYES OPEN". This action will confuse him and start the "STUTTER AFFECT"

Good Night and Good Luck (Murrow-Olberman)

Ken · 1 year ago

Tell him he should never have left "The Daily Show."

mia · 1 year ago

he's always joking, for g-d's sake...he is so backhanded at his insults to the right. he is truly a master...my advice is to joke back

Danb123 · 1 year ago

Steven Colbert may ask you "who hangs out ore often with Terrorist, you or Senator Obama?" Your answer could and should be "Sean Hannity". By his own standards of guilt by association, Sean Hannity hangs out with terrorists, promotes their causes and is an anti-semite. Go for it!

raztis · 1 year ago

hes gonna come from the weirdest angles as possible and his questions will have no good answer. hes a comedian, hes not even really republican hes making fun of them. if you hit a question like the hate america question just answer with a republican, lol.
coblert: "who hates america more you or micheal moore"
your response: "well steven i would have to say daniel mudd would probably beat us both, besides i love america, i just hate people trying to destroy it"
or something along those lines
dont be defensive, laugh at his questions, and joke around with him.

Hrair · 1 year ago

"Who loves America more? John McCain the POW or John McCain the US President?"

"Robert, when will you make a video about 'The Real McCain'? Don't you owe it to this country?"

"Robert, don't you think you are wasting all your money on negative video attacks on McCain? I mean, c'mon, nobody's watching them. Look at the polls, McCain is winning in every state."

Go get em Robert. I love your work. Thanks for everything. One more thing. Can do your magic to defeat Prop 8 in California? Please?

Lisa O'Hara · 1 year ago

The answer to every colbert question is: "The largest ice shelf off the coast of Canada fell into the ocean and melted this summer"--if he asks you to choose between two people, say "Cheney" or "Charo" or "You, Mr. Colbert" or any other person you can think of. Sing.

Grainne · 1 year ago

Dear Mr. Greenwald,
As much as I respect you and have sympathy for your cause, I cannot give you insight into Stephen's thought process. I have already made a pledge to the Colbert Nation and My word is my bond, unlike so many Americans today who need lawyers and lengthy litigations and back-alley deals that invariably go along with "payolla". No sir, I am of an old fashioned sensibility and once I have made a commitment I have to keep it. To you I say...Good Luck and may the best Man win....Which will of course be Stephen as national polls clearly show he is the best Man. (I don't see your semen being shot off into space.)

Martha · 1 year ago

Be a good sport. Be prepared in case he asks, "Why did you have your bloggers how to nail me? Are you afraid of me?"

LCV · 1 year ago

He'll likely ask you how you can be so certain Obama is not a terrorist. Surely he'll bring up some conspiracy theory on ACORN and where it gets its funding, so be familiar with the wonderful work they do and how they have been monitoring many of the voter registrations they've been receiving. McCain & Palin's attempt at character assassination of Obama is a disgusting tactic, and all the more ironic considering the source. I fear it will only get worse once the debate is over and they can duck the press more. So keep up your great work (many thanks) and let the truth be known.

Danb123 · 1 year ago

Steven Colbert may ask you "who hangs out more often with terrorists, you or Senator Obama?" Your answer could and should be "Sean Hannity". By his own standards of guilt by association, Sean Hannity hangs out with terrorists, promotes their causes and is an anti-semite. Go for it!

Gary Holstrom · 1 year ago

Do you suppose the Secret Service arrested the person who shouted, "Kill Him" during a McCain rally?

~olga~ · 1 year ago

Onward soldier, but relax (Colbert is on our team basically), but be on your toes. What are you worried about, everything "we the people" are dealing with is "truth & lending & facts, especially b/c we are all pretty much feeling the same way about the destruction of America, and implementing & correcting our environment & economy, as we knew it. We want our comfort level back, and that will come when we have a Reprentative that takes care of it's own... first & foremost, as opposed to this administration who destroyed, eaten their young, inbetween, & the older generation too.You know the facts about mc/bush/palin, and have exposed both of them very well, so answer from your heart and stay the course...next

Amy · 1 year ago

Turn the tables on him, and ask him something. He LOVES to talk about himself. It's not about you; it's about him. He prides himself on trying to ask the unexpected.

Anthony Lauritano · 1 year ago

Ask him who is the better kisser? Jane Fonda or his wife? Just kidding. Good luck and have fun!

Doug Roach · 1 year ago

Compliment him on his Emmy.

End game. You win. :-)

Lynn · 1 year ago

It's not about the questions, it's about your responses to the questions. Keep your cool. Do not become reactive. Stay positive. Reframe the questions if necessary or comment that the question is inflammatory or.....

JAYBOD · 1 year ago

Sorrrry for the typos. The opening shoulod have been:
Whoa there... You are forgetting the art of defocusation... Slap them in the face and they won't feel your hand in their pocket.

Ali · 1 year ago

I think he will ask about the valid Birth Certificate thing.

Raunstar · 1 year ago

You could learn alot from watching the recent interview with Oliver Stone. Colbert's theme is to blindly support the current administration & to repeat their slogans, excuses & lies as tho he believes them.

Oliver Stone totally stumped him with his dry sarcastic support of the same.

Leigh Kinne · 1 year ago

You should certainly give your honest opinion on all of his questions. If you get the chance to ask him a question, maybe ask which candidate he thinks is "truly" interested in world peace; or if he believes in witch doctors and hokus pokus like Palin. Maybe does he want war for 100 years? But, I digress. You are the expert. Who hates America more - maybe reword the question to who is more disappointed in America.
Good luck. Can't wait to see it.

Phil Donough · 1 year ago

Bring O'Reilly with you as a surprise guest. He won't even notice you with papa bear around. First Question: XXXX XXXXX XXXX XXXXXX XXXX!

Good luck with that one!

Gary Guerriero · 1 year ago

I'm going to give you the benefit of the doubt & assume you know that Colbert's program is on the "Comedy" channel & is meant to be humorous & satirical
So lighten up!!
Your answer to his question should have been something like: "Me! Anything Michael Moore can do, I can do better! Including being labeled by the lunatic right wing as a traitor!"
One of the areas where we have always been able outdo the conservatives is humor because we are much more creative than they are. Show it.
We don't need become caricatures of ourselves like Palin.

larrydean · 1 year ago

My comments re your comment under "My Comments" on your blog. To go in the direction of Fox News being a mouthpiece for the right wing is a losing direction. The mouthpieces for the left wing (CNN, PBS, NBC, CBS, etc) are numerous and endless. Cased closed.

And as far as John McCain's 'hate, rage' as you portray in your videos, this is also a losing direction. The left (hello New York protestors) is so far out in front in the hateful political talk contest, it's not funny. Remember, Obama and his supporters are ALWAYS the first to play the race card....condem the Almighty and it's racist.

Greg in LBC · 1 year ago

Ask "Why has the press been only willing to show John McCain as a doddering, grumpy fool, and not the naked liar and dangerous man he his?"

That, and mention you had a film on Colbert ready if he got on the ballot in North Carolina. Actually, that could be funny bit. Edit a 30 second spot just like your McCain ones, but make it about Colbert.

Dave · 1 year ago

Colbert does not ask serious questions. Don't even try to give serious answers.

Alternatively, say "I'm glad you asked that", and then proceed to answer as if he had asked an entirely different question. If you do it right, it could be very funny.

cordell · 1 year ago

Don't worry about what he'll ask you. State the facts, he will take care of the humor.

babybug08 · 1 year ago

I would start by apologizing for not having called the atone phone last week for Yom Kippur to apologize for all your propaganda and lies from this past year that were aimed specifically at upsetting Stephan. But that was last year and you can let him know that you're starting all over again, but keeping track so that you can apologize next year for having helped to get "who is" Barack Obama elected President!

If you're not Jewish, you can simply explain that you atone on Yom Kippur because ever since you were a kid, you're favorite things have been Jews and Cuban food.

Good luck!

trentmannina · 1 year ago

The best way to nail Colbert is to work him into an argument in which he feels the Constitution is wrong. Then, confront him on being at odds with the Constitution. Then, tell him that the Constitution is America and ask him why he hates America. When he says that he doesn't hate America, respond by saying that you accept his apology and his complete renunciation of all things conservative. If he says that he didn't apologize, tell him "too late, I already accepted it!" If you do this, you will have nailed him using his own tactics.

Abbybwood · 1 year ago

Colbert: "So, I haven't really noticed any videos covering McCain's "gambling" problem. Why not?"

Colbert: "Have you guys noticed that Vicky Iseman has just disappeared off the face of the Earth? Do you think McCain had her snuffed or what?"

Colbert: "Is McCain doing Palin? I mean, I'd like to do her wouldn't you?"

Colbert: "Has Palin's pastor Muthee, the Witchcraft Voodoo Minister from Kenya laid hands on you to "show you the way" on how to do a better job at Brave New Films? You do know that he "showed her a way" to become Governor. I think Rev. Muthee will "show her a way" to become President. Does that scare you?"

Colbert: "Do you think Palin's had her teeth whitened? I do."

Colbert: "Why haven't you guys done a special expose on Palin's "supposed" affair with Brad What's His Name?! Not "juicy" enough for you?"

Colbert: "I've been thinking about another one of Palin's pastors. The one who says that if a woman takes birth control pills she's a murderer? After all, do YOU realize how many zygotes get flushed down the john every month that a woman's on "the pill"?

Colbert: "People try to bad mouth John McCain by saying, 'He only chose Palin cause she's hot. I think he would have picked her even if she weighed in at 200 pounds and was ugly as a piece of rotten steak. Don't you agree!!?"

jack Lochhead · 1 year ago

Tell him you are pulling a Palin and only answering your own questions.

jerry pecora · 1 year ago

Dear Mr. Greenwald,

As a huge fan of Stephen Colbert, I "resent" that you feel he is out to get you. Having said that, you might prepare yourself this time for a full-blown assault on your profession. You know, something subtle like "Robert Greenwald is to Barack Obama as..Leni Riefenstahl is to Hitler".
Re your question to him, forget it-as you hinted, you won't get the chance. I suggest a visual--a 'gift' for Colbert (i.e., a back brace for carrying McCain's water)that will force the silver-tongued host to respond at the start. Beyond that, bring your helmet...

warren leming · 1 year ago

Colbert has made a very good living "adopting" the personnae of a Right Wing commentator..... question is.... has this been a career enhancing move? Has imitating neo Fascists proven corporate media friendly?

Judy Czubati · 1 year ago

I am sure you do not need any advice as to how to proceed. However, the article, "Make-Believe Maverick" in latest Rolling Stone Magazine might be worth delving into. Best of luck in keeping up with Colbert! Not easy!

Dan · 1 year ago

Tell Colbert that you might have some people on your staff who could 'tighten up' that dowdy eagle he has flying through his show's opening. It's got to be the least airworthy bird I've ever seen.

Jim "Vaclav" Hipp · 1 year ago

Ask him first if he admits that Savannah is a prettier town than Charleston. Despite being a South Carolinian, only a blind fool would pick Charleston, though it's a beautiful place. KKnock him off his admittedly funny, and "dishonest", pedastal.

smo · 1 year ago

keep in mind that colbert's schtick IS comedy, he's making jokes being a sort of satirical devil's advocate. instead of being on the defensive be quick on your feet! it's a comedy show albeit a relevant one, the best way to respond to a joke is WITH a joke [about mccain or the topic not directed at colbert] being defensive makes it look like you can't take a joke.

Yvonne Seville · 1 year ago

Is the McCain campaign trying to foster at atmosphere of asassination againgst Obama while McCain himself finally, but half-heartedly rebutted a rally goer. McCain wants to come out looking like the good guy now (especially after his poll ratings have dropped...how convenient) while his campaign, Palin, and wife continue to nurture the hatred. What is up with that contradiction?

Andrew Bacon · 1 year ago

I suggest you review Oliver Stone's recent appearance... he played his own version of Colbert's character, sarcastically supporting all the opposite positions from the ones he really holds. It worked for him :-)

Mona · 1 year ago

You could arm yourself with your own "Hobson's Choice" questions -- and toss those at him as replies. It could be very funny to trade back and forth and never really answer anything.

You need no-win questions in the Hobson format like the infamous "Have you stopped beating your wife" wherein if you say Yes, it implies you have been beating her and stopped and if you say No, it means you're still beating her.

Maybe funny stuff like "Well, let me ask you this: Have you stopped taking Sarah Palin pictures into the bathroom with you?"

I'm sure you can come up with some that can point to the flaws of the McPain campaign.

Good luck! Hope this helps!

Chris Waite-Jones · 1 year ago

Colbert is definitely a tough interviewer. Colbert is great at going through ridiculous means to turn anything an interviewee says back on them. I feel like interviewees perform the best when they emplore the same strategies without going to such ridiculous lengths. So try to agree with something he says, and then explain how that goes exactly with what you were saying before. If all else fails, laugh. He's a nut.

-Chris

Sid · 1 year ago

The game you play is not answering any of his questions. Have all your own questions ready.
Start by saying, "Gee, Steve (or one of the other show host's name. Each time a different names), I am so glad you asked that." Then answer your own question or the remarks you want to talk about.
Good luck,
Sid

Cory · 1 year ago

As several have pointed out, Robert, Colbert's over-the-top right wing absurdities are your best friend. You can't and shouldn't "nail" him. Simply laugh at his outrageous statements, then succinctly point out the facts that make such right-wing statements and insinuations so absurd and unjust and how Brave New Films is debunking them. You've successfully made those arguments hundreds of times. Now you get a national forum. Have a great time!

Stack · 1 year ago

Dear Robert,
Don't be a victim. Turn the tables on Colbert. Don't wait for him to ask you a question. Grill him! Why isn't he more angry about McCain being portrayed as such an angry old man?
If Colbert really loves America as much as McCain, why hasn't he been doing Annenberg-endorsed McCain a favor and harping on the fact that Annenberg-sponsored Ayers "launched" Obama's political career in Ayers' 1960s retro-terrorist living room?

Lynn Ferguson · 1 year ago

Ask him about all the other 600 Vietnam POW's? Ask him what mccain has done to keep in touch with these hero's and what he has done to make sure America took care of them?

Ask him if he had a 14 year old daughter and she was visiously raped and got pregnant -- would he want HIS daughter to have to keep the baby?

sarah palin herself, said the word "choice", her 17 year old pregnant daughter CHOSE to keep the baby -- while that same sarah palin is trying to take that "choice" from the rest of the daughters.

Dave Causton · 1 year ago

Facts: Enron was a bunch of crooks, the country is much worse off than it was 8 years ago, Greed has taken over Big Oil, Health Care,Drug Companies,and our Government so as was proved Wright the last time I was on the show, I will be proved wright again on Nov. 4th. I don't think you can really argue with his kind of propaganda, you just feed the facts which will eventually show that you are wright. He wants you to fight. My Dad lost $ 600,000 in Enron.

Phil Johnson · 1 year ago

ask him why the republican nominee for vice-president runs a socialist state government, where the state GIVES money to its citizens from the oil revenues. this is socialism at its worst, where the government is just giving money to people for doing nothing. is this what the republican party wants, is rampant socialism?

Allen Kanner · 1 year ago

Question for Colbert: Since you already have experience substituting for McCain on Letterman, would you consider replacing Palin if she were to drop out?

peg · 1 year ago

why isn't anyone mentioning the fact that Leonore Ananberg, who started the foundation where Barack met Ayers just endorsed Mc Cain last week-does that make him a terrorist?

Also, all the talk about Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac, and no one calls Mc Cain out for his campaign manager Rick Davis just receiving his most recent paycheck from Fannie last month!

J B · 1 year ago

Oops! He's a DEVIL's ADVOCATE comedian not a conservative. This time he will ask you why you hate John McCain so much, and don't you think your videos are as bad as the hate he and SP are stirring up?
Relax and have fun!

roger vaughan · 1 year ago

Colbert is maybe the smartest nut case practicing comedy (and don't forget that's his shtick). His show is a takeoff of Bill O'Reilly, and is so twisted one shouldn't bother to try and figure it out. Getting laughs is his priority. Guests are grist for his mill. Colbert is brilliant and very fast, so rule #1: don't think for a minute you can "nail" Colbert or compete with him. He has home court advantage big time. Go with the flow. Rule #2: if you try to use his show to make serious points you will fail. He will cut the legs out from under you. Rule #3: play to his lead: allow yourself to be made fun of (self-deprecation works) and return the fun as much as you can (bring him a bag of Doritos you can haul out if the going gets tough).
As for questions, get the nuttiest guy on your staff, or who you know, to help you with a few questions. Here's a sample: why would McCain select a doofus like Palin unless he was an old sick guy who secretly wanted to lose?
Rule #5: change channels and get as loose as you can before you go on. Drink some kickpoo joy juice, whatever. Free your brain. Decide to have fun. Be cool. You've done your homework. Have fun with Colbert and jump in with points when you can.
Follow these rules and you should do okay. If you don't throw up after the show consider it a win.

Linda · 1 year ago

Always answer a question, no matter what , with another question.

marianne · 1 year ago

Robert,

You're taking him too seriously. He is a comedian. In fact, his brilliance is that he communicates two, or more, apparently conflicting things at the same time. Watch his segment "The Word." If you don't know what to say in response, laugh. Colbert is absolutely hilarious and he's a take-off on O'Reilly, who IS serious and not hilarious.

You can't beat Colbert at his game - he is beyond brilliant. The best Colbert interviews are the ones where the people know that this is a joke and they play along. He has such fun with them. If you think he is serious and try to "beat him" at his game, seriously, he'll make mincemeat of you!! I like Dave's comment - "say I'm glad you asked that and then respond by saying whatever you want. You could tell him you are speaking Palinese. ME

Christine · 1 year ago

I am a member of the Colbert Nation, so you're out of luck my friend. I wish you godspeed, and am envious that you'll be sitting across from Stephen and not me. How I would love to get "nailed" by Colbert!

Andrea Burgdorf · 1 year ago

Just say, "Sarah Palin, are they KIDDING???". Also, I really like one of the ideas below: Do what Palin does when she hasn't a clue (which is most of the time), "What specifically do you mean, Charlie" Or, "I'm not going to answer that question Glen" and quickly pivot to talk about energy.

dalloway · 1 year ago

Does Colbert support the secession of Alaska like Sarah Palin's husband? Would he like to be King of Alaska?

Re: some of the folks at McCain-Palin rallies -- is violence just another way of showing you care?

If all the lobbyists on the McCain campaign were laid end to end (as likely as meteor carving W. on Mt. Rushmore) would they reach to the moon?

larrydean · 1 year ago

Re Jay Santiago's comments about a job versus a tax cut. Again, for the umpteenth time, tax cuts CREATE jobs. It has been proven again and again and again. The absolute best way to create jobs is to let the people keep and spend their own money. I realize the government believes it can spend my money more wisely than me, however I prefer to spend it myself. However, Obama wants to change the system so that instead of Americans paying no income tax, it should be 60-70%, so he will redistribute the wealth to make that happen.
P.S. the current unemployment rate of 6% is right where it was during the Clinton years and the AVERAGE of the 1990's.

Big Ed · 1 year ago

You have a lot of good suggestions. Just don't accept the premise of the question. "Who hates America more?" The answer is neither one of us hates America at all. Do you Mr. Colbert?

Gina Dadomo · 1 year ago

Good luck, you never know what Colbert willcome up with, I am sure you will do well!

Michael T. · 1 year ago

I think Colbert's whole "thing" is playing the devil's advocate. He's actually totally on your side, but his sense of humor is such that he presents this totally dry wit. He's not actually antogonizing you. Just the fact that you're on his show is going to turn a bunch more people on to the work that you are doing. If you can joke around with him in a sarcastic fun way, you'll really have fun with him. I mean, this is the guy that delivered the speech at the 2006 White House Correspondent's dinner where he ripped W. apart.
The more you have a sense of humor about how inane McCain/Palin are and how much you want to expose them, the better you'll do. Colbert just basically want's people to have a sense of humor about what's going on in the world. It seems to me that his philosophy is to expose how f'ed up everything is, get powerful people working for change, like yourself, on the show to help educate the viewers. Get the laughter flowing, which lightens the mood and frees people up to do the research themselves and change the world. You can't expect to get on the show and deliver a diatribe about what you're working on, because the format of the show is not designed to go in depth on issues, it's to deliver a fast paced smear of the all crooked things that are going on. He's assuming that his viewership is well read and educated already on the issues. He's basically just making fun of everything that is corrupt in a slap-stick rapid fire manner. Your biggest agenda should be to say the name of your website, period. Other than that, expect to give a brief overview of the work you do, and just hand the intense sarcasm right back. I really don't think he's against you, I think that's just his sense of humor. Have FUN!! and know that you are making a huge ripple just by being on the show and giving your website address!

Joseph Knorr · 1 year ago

Try to stay partisan with your questions, playing back and forth with his "set ups", ask him things like "why do you hate the troops Stephen" or "if republicans like you are winners Stephan and not "cut and runners" why are you a Cubs fan?". Quick comebacks, have a couple ready on distraction politics, and agreeing how Sarah Palin really brings sexual objectivity back to classical family values.... and so on. Quick cuts back and forth don't be too wordy unless your trying to set him up, quick points and attack.

Lynda Crowley · 1 year ago

This has some great stuff... you've probably read it but just in case...
http://www.rollingstone.com/news/coverstory/mak...

Suzi · 1 year ago

1. Don't even attempt to nail the host. You are at his mercy, not the other way around.

2. If you don't have an immediate response you could always use the Palin Escape Method: "In what way, Charlie?"

Valli Powerr · 1 year ago

I watch Stephen Colbert all the time - Don't you get it? He's using irony (waaaaaay over the top) to make the audience think twice about extremism. He makes us uncomfortable - but in a deeper more subtle way he is actually on your side! Let the truth come out and JOKE WITH HIM. Can't wait to see it!

Celeste · 1 year ago

Ask him why it's okay for John McCain to pal around with right wing extremists like Sarah Palin, and why it's not a bigger deal that she has ties to a secessionist organization whose founder expressed extreme hatred of the USA.

James · 1 year ago

The best guests ALWAYS just laugh when Mr Colbert hits them with the silly stuff. But do have him address you in the french pronunciation of your name (RO Bear) Have Fun !

Dan Townsend · 1 year ago

Ask him why he thinks he's SO cute.Deformed ear and all- he thinks way too much of him self!

Carolyn · 1 year ago

If he asks you another question like "Who hates America more, you or Michael Moore?" just ask him back the famous, "Have you stopped beating your wife?"

silvia Hall · 1 year ago

Be prepared to answer questions about ACORN (maybe) and the difference between voter fraud, vote registration fraud and voter suppression. There is a book out there,"How to rig and election".

Good luck!

yodycat · 1 year ago

Colbert will say" So Bob (can I call you Bob?) you made a video called The Real McCain. I'm glad to see that you finally realize that McCain is the real deal. Will your next film be The Fake Obama"?

Just giving you a heads up!!!

John Hilfirty · 1 year ago

I would simply reverse any question he may ask and fire it back at him, with a good, crisp answer.

Example: Q. "Who hates America more, you or Michael Moore?"

A. "I think the better question would be Who loves America more, me or Michael Moore, and the answer would be difficult to measure accurately, we both seem so intent on saving America. We should team up, right?"

I wouldn't consider anything he does as a win, after all, who's he playing to, the hard core ultra-right-wingers? We can't lose them, they're already lost! Just have fun. McCain and his "Yukon Barbie" are about to retire.

nintynine · 1 year ago

Keep in mind that Colbert’s humor is total sarcasm and go in there with the mind set of having a good time and laugh with him. Last year I thought he was Pro-Bush but it was all sarcasm. Just think of funny rebuttals to anything he says that can make your point, because he’s really on your side and the side of a better country without Bush and without McCain. Good Luck and think humor is the best medicine!

Missy · 1 year ago

Parrot some of his own lines back to him. When he "insults" your videos for exposing truths say, "You're welcome." Puncutate it with the same hand gesture he uses.

Pander to his character's huge ego. Tell him he's as good an interviewer as Papa Bear.

Bring his book with you and let him know you're trying to decipher secret code from it for your next project... for when he successfully gets on the next ballot.

Very ostentatiously wear one of his WristStong bracelets.

When he "nails" you, laugh and be a good sport. You are the straight man to his comedy. Know your place and be a guest he'll want to keep bringing back.

HAVE FUN!

Citizen_WTF · 1 year ago

Retort any odd question with an equally absurd one:
'When did you stop beating your wife?'

eric courtney · 1 year ago

Remind Colbert of the wise adage "Say what you want about your opponent but be able to also say hello to his or her kids". Mc Cheney cannot say hello to Obama's kids. Thats why he will lose !!!

leslie saunders · 1 year ago

Hi Robert,
Please ask what steps America needs to take to begin the healing process for a culturally demoralized nation AFTER we send McCain and Palin back home to Arizona and Alaska on November 4th. Keep up the great work and good luck on Thursday's show!

Bridget · 1 year ago

When you shake his hand say:Good to be here with you and America,the land and people that I love so much;I can't even measure because it's that great a love:He will be speechless,lol...Good luck you'll be great....Bridget

wendy Small · 1 year ago

Asked someone who's been there- do the valium personality, dont try to keep up- wont work. play low low key

ilvfirenze · 1 year ago

I think he's going to ask you about the email you just sent out and ask why you are "scared" of him ...=)

Sally Spelbring · 1 year ago

I am a fan of the brillant Stephan Colbert so good luck trying to undo his brillance

Inga Vickers · 1 year ago

Stevan Colbert is such an A***hole that I don't watch him any more. You go on his show at your own risk. Be very careful, though!

Rashid Patch · 1 year ago

Use the Jedi Mind Tricks technique: Respond to every one of Colbert's statements or questions with questions of your own. Have a prepared list memorized. Ask, "Why is it you hate YouTube - Americans like YouTube, our troops use it - why do you hate YouTube?" Ask, "Have you examined the life expectancy of melanoma victims? How long do you think McCain can last on the job?"
Ask, "Why do you suppose that the largest demonstration in the history of Alaska was a 'Women Against Palin' rally?"

No matter what Colbert responds to anything you say, and no matter what he asks you, instantly ask him another question about another topic.

Do not respond in any way to anything he says, except with a question of your own, on a different topic.

If you can keep this up for two minutes, he will either go ballistic on camera, or he will go into a state of hypnotic confusion/trance. If he visibly freaks out, that's good! Don't say a word, just back away, and let him look like a rabid ape - TV will make it look worse than it is; let the stage crew restrain him. If he goes into semi-coma, that's fine too. Just keep asking more questions. His non-responses will go out over the air - with your questions - and the questions themselves will work as post-hypnotic suggestions.

timothy ehlen · 1 year ago

You did great last time--I think you even charmed the audience to be on your side. That's the only trick: don't take it too seriously. Any points you can get in edgewise are a plus.

John · 1 year ago

You just have to relax, and try to be sharp. Like when he asked "Who hates America more, you or Michael Moore?"

You should have deflected the question back at him and said "Well I won't say its the media and I won't say its NOT, but theres been TALK!" LoL

When he says he'd like to "DO" Palin offer to be the towel boy. Or if he refers to someone else "doing" her offer to dust her for fingerprints.

Just be as nuts as he is....can't fail...

richard Kurth · 1 year ago

If you're a sincere guy who can't easily be funny and sarcastic, don't try. You can't beat him at his game (and it is a game as he's really on the side of intelligence, not O'Really). But I do have two suggestions. One is what some others have done well, i.e. laugh at him and with him - after all, he IS funny! The other is the Palin response. Just say whatever you want to say regardless of the question. It's easy, if you have the courage to look like an idiot. Be as ridiculous as you want, or serious, right to the end. Ignore his questions and say anything. And don't fold and say "just kidding."

Mo Jane · 1 year ago

Robert, just relax. You have the knowledge to answer any of his claims/questions. But, most important, find your sense of humor and go with it. Maybe he'll air one of your ads.

Rick Abrams · 1 year ago

It's a battle of wits. My condolences to you.

Vanessa · 1 year ago

* He consistently contradicts his own policy- making decisions and his knowledge of the economy.

* Although he doesn't resort to acts of violence, McCain is the true terrorist. He strikes fear in the hearts of Americans at a vulnerable time. He should be reminded that Obama is a Senator just like him and if Obama's intentions are being questioned, so should his.

* Since McCain has experienced the cruelest acts human beings can take part in as a POW, you've got ask if he's retained any of that anger displayed onto him. Just as children of abused homes, they can display these acts later in life without notice. You are what you eat.

Question for Colbert: Did McCain sign a document stating he was a criminal of war?

June · 1 year ago

I'd go back and watch the Oliver Stone "W" interview-from the end of last week. Stone played the straight man to Colbert and may have aided in getting more to see his film that way.
The main think is to not be too serious...or if you are have a sense of humor about yourself.

Barbara Russek · 1 year ago

I stopped watching the Colbert Report and The Daily Show because the mess this country is in isn't funny. It's one thing to make fun of Bush but things aren't that funny for the working people in this country . How does Steve feel about that? Another thing is I'm sick of political comedians calling the American people stupid so I don't watch Bill Maher anymore either.

Barbara Karwhite · 1 year ago

I think he will show clips from the Politics of Hate because Palin is so laughable in itself, but he can also play off that to his own end, whatever that be.

bladewriter · 1 year ago

Robert, it doesn't matter. You get 5 minutes on one of top shows in television. Your goal is to get viewers to look at your videos. Respond to every question with "As my recent video [fill in the blank] shows, ...."

Constance Wiggins · 1 year ago

The correct answer was neither. We both love our country. You can't anticipate what Stephen's going to ask; you have to listen to the question, answer truthfully and don't fall into his traps.
Constance Wiggins

Ed · 1 year ago

He writers will have gotten wind of this effort and will ask something like: "Do you really think soliciting help from your 'fans' will save you from the rath of my nation"?

Robert · 1 year ago

Greetings. Love the ongoing episodes of meet the bloggers.

First off COMPLIMENT HIM a lot. He sucks it up and gives lots of love to the quests for doing it.

Then I think for sure he will bring up the McCain health video that shows McCain's scars. Orielly called that the worst attack ad of all. And Colbert pretends to be Orielly's protegee.

Good luck and all best,
Rob Cohen

Susie · 1 year ago

You don't need to answer his question! Do a Sarah Palin. Tell him you are going to not answer his question (and say it is a Sarah Palin) then come back at him with what you want to say.

Go get him boy!

TM Akashi · 1 year ago

Your concern is a real one, since talk show hosts are able to think extremely fast, so you will always be at a disadvantage (like a cat and mouse). Try to keep him on topic saying "Why are you asking that question?" when he goes for a humorous one that you hesitate answering. Unless you are extremely comfortable in front of an audience, fear will make clear thinking difficult. Since humor is the primary goal, try and have some humorous stories to tell, which you can use at key (off-balanced) times.

Eleanor · 1 year ago

You can't "nail" Colbert, so don't even try. He's the fastest satiric and comedic gun in the west. And as a recent poster reminded you, he's ON YOU SIDE. Remember him at the Press Club dinner a couple of years back, savaging GWB in the most ingenuous way? What you can do to prepare is relax, keep your sense of humor and be ready to take a joke. A lotof jokes. At the same time, keep the vital info you want to convey intact, compact and orderly in your head, and get it in where you can. He'll let you. Bill O'Reilly was on Colbert's show a while back, and he went on with a dour, defensive demeanor. Colbert was like a verbal Muhammed Ali, and O'Reilly came off as solemn and stupid. It was great.

mafarmerga · 1 year ago

The best eleven minutes you can spend preparing is by watching Keith Olbermann fisk Gov. Palin.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3-WTy8cNNk


Whatever you do don't admit to "palling around with Atila the Hun" In this way you can distinguish yourself from Bill O'Reilly.

Robert Guercio · 1 year ago

"Who hates America more, you or Michael Moore!"

A question of this nature should not be dignified with a response!!!!

Bob Guercio

John Ostergren · 1 year ago

You do know Stephen Colbert is doing a character, right? You don't need to prepare, you just need to be on your toes and ready to play along.

Stoney Browning · 1 year ago

Here's an idea! When he comes out, just grab him and give him a big wet kiss! Right on the mouth!

Afterward, just sit there in the chair, and stare longingly at him! That should put a kink in his knickers!

Then ask "Are we going to do what we did the last time after the show?"!

Suzanne Roodman · 1 year ago

I think you are doing a great job and I am sorry I missed your last appearance on the Colbert Report.

But please don't try to "nail" Steven. Despite his attack mode, it is pretty obvious he is on our side. Be relaxed. And laugh when he makes an outrageous comment and then quickly set the record straight. Just the fact that he has asked you back means he thinks you have something to offer. Good luck. I'll be watching and cheering you on.

Peggy · 1 year ago

Don't try to "nail him."
Laugh at his damning questions, (ie who hates america more, you or MM) then pull a Palin on him: Ignore the question and pull out your talking points.

Licia Carla Izoton Alves · 1 year ago

Dear Robert,

Hi! I am not American and this is why I felt like speaking my mind about one of the questions Stephen Colbert has asked you the other time around.

"Who hates America more, you or Michael Moore?". To begin with, there are three Americas: North America, Central America and South America. The name of your country is United States of America, not America. That being said, why does this man think you hate your own Country?! He has some nerve!!! You should have asked him that. "Why do you say Michael Moore and I hate our country?! Just because we care more about human beings? A Country is the people who live in it + the land + the Constitution. Politicians are not a Country. And, most certainly, you are an official representative of the people of the United States.

I guess you can get the picture. You can beat him in his own ridiculous game without levelling yourself with him. Be strong, Robert! Be true to what you believe in. You are an intelligent man. Calling Colbert a donkey would be an offense to the donkeys, because they work so hard. Don't be afraid. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Sincerely,

Lícia

john · 1 year ago

Don't nail Colbert. You fall into the same trap as McCain - you become a warrior fighting good and evil. Who hates America more? Obviously you both love America and want to help America. We don't want to crush McCain, we want to build a better country by shifting to a more sustainable future. Speak not from the hate but from the heart. Humor and hope rather than fear.

Question - 'Many people see the choice as black & white, how do you see it?'

Quentin · 1 year ago

I watch every single one of his shows. Don't attack him personally - he is a Republican blowhard impersonator and his audience are liberal, but if you attack him or his approach you lose the crowd. Better to keep attacking your targets and let him riff on your comments.

I doubt he will refer to any of your real points made in videos, he'll just take one bizarre angle and go with it - that's the blowhard way.

He says (in an interview somewhere) that people coming on his show and trying to be funny don't do well - they're waiting to tell their joke and aren't concentrating. He says he'll go as far as he thinks you can go as a guest (so his last attack on you was a compliment!) and he says what works best is to play him straight. Try to explain the truth to him and he'll keep avoiding it, and that's the game. Treat him like an idiot, but an idiot with his parents in the room - you don't want to patronize or offend.

You could always refer to your last visit and ask him who loves his country more, him or O'Reilly / McCain / Palin / Bush or whoever you want.

And like any interview do not accept the premise of the question (that you hat America, or hate old people or whatever). Don't flatly deny it, but just say "I think it's a question of who loves America more....", or "I'm flattered you compare me to Michael Moore....", "The more important question is whether Palin is competent..." etc.

Have fun!

P.S. You probably know this from last time - if you're sitting on the round table don't stand up when he announces you - he does the "look at me dance" and you look like a dork if you're standing up waiting for him to finish.

Michelle · 1 year ago

Like someone below said - definitely pull a Palin... "Well Stephen, I'm not going to answer your questions the way you want me to." And then proceed to talk about whatever you want.

Just remember - it's a comedy show. Colbert is an incredibly liberal guy who plays an O'Reilly style right wing nutcase because it's funny. Don't take any of it too seriously and you'll be fine.

dakan · 1 year ago

Give me a break! Colbert is just a joke. It's comedy. I'm unsubscribing myself from you now.

cay murphy · 1 year ago

ask him if he was breast feed or bottle feed,i'm sure thats whats at the root of his problem." and i mean when he was a baby."

Joel Smoller · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert if he's more faithful to his wife or his girlfriend.

Frank R Scott · 1 year ago

1) Robert: Please ask Stephen Colbert why it is that the so-called "Liberal" Media always support the Republicans? Could the answer be that only a few individuals - and Corporations - actually own the Media? Disney owns ABC, Murdoch owns Fox, Sumner Redstone owns Viacom and CBS and General Electric owns NBC. Also, contrary to the Media labelling itself as "Fair and Un-Biased" the Media (especially Television) are filled with Bias.
2) Why is it that the real issues in the 2008 Presidential Campaign - lack of affordable Housing, lack of Healthcare, the real cause of the economic meltdown (Republican De-Regulation) the Real Costs of the Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan - are not mentioned and instead the Campaign is allowed to de-generate into a shouting match about Senator Obams's ex-Minister and so-called ex-radical friend from the 1960s?
3) Obviously what needs to be brought out is the bias of the Media (especially television).

Alex Pearce · 1 year ago

He will ask you questions on a variety of issues but just be calm and humorous on the show. The people interviewed on his show and segements that took Stephen 100% serious are the ones who get caught in his game and made a jackass of.

Philly Bob · 1 year ago

To a die-hard member of the "Colbert Nation" such as myself, is it so obvious which of these posts come from viewers and which don't. Colbert is NOT right-way; he mocks "Papa-Bear Bill O'Reily,etc." in masterful satire. The true Colbert is one of us.

The key is to not take his "Character" seriously. Don't fall into arguements with his Character. He is more witty than you or I. He gets the last laugh, no matter who comes on the show.

Allow Colbert to make absurd jokes, and even ridecule you. What non-viewers, and politicians terrified of him - like Pelosi - don't respect is the intellect of "the Nation". We, the viewers, know what he is doing, and we enjoy the humor and absurbity of his Character.

Pelosi and co. don't understand that we enjoy the humor, but we also LISTEN TO THE GUESTS and learn from their perspectives. Colbert may make you uncomfortable, but he will find a sublime way to let you get your point across and further our cause.

Go on the show's website, and watch previous interviews. You'll see how tactfully effective guests handle Colbert and themselves.

Go Phils.

Gary in SLC · 1 year ago

Since you obviously don't hate America, you should have responded "Michael Moore does", but then followed it up with "Michael Moore doesn't hate America, he hates bad Americans, like those who think it's OK to send our men and women to war for lies,or those who think tax cuts fo the rich are better than jobs for the middle class."

IF he asks you a question Thursday night, just say you'll answer his question if he'll answer one of yours. Then ask him "Is Barack Obama the best candidate for the office of President, or the best EVER?" This is the kind of phrasing he uses on his guests,where the two choices are to promote his point of view (although he does it to emphasize irony or sarcasm, which is the great attraction of his show.)

Mary Grace · 1 year ago

Have a Pinocchio nose handy, but out of sight. First time he tells what YOU deem to be an UNtruthiness, pull it out and wear it.

'Nuff said!

Reallly looking forward to the show!

Aaron Cole · 1 year ago

First, remember that Colbert probably supports your views! Don't try and nail him. He's not the enemy. His satire has the advantage when guests take themselves, and their views, too seriously. If he asks a question that stumps you because it seems so hostile try saying "Hmm, let me think about that...Oh yes, we both love america and believe in dissent like the founding fathers!" Don't take his remarks personally! The show is supposed to be funny, not a truly serious forum on
what you personally believe. If you can't joke about your views with Colbert then Oliver Stone's approach might be the way to go. Just tell yourself over and over, Colbert is a parody of Bill Oreilly, not the enemy!

Fran DeMillion · 1 year ago

'Lighten up'....this is a funny show that is sometimes more informative than the mainline media... so play along... tell the truth, laugh and Colbert will take care of the rest!

Redge Ranyard · 1 year ago

Ask him what the time is.

Yvette · 1 year ago

You can prep by watching his interview with Joseph Stiglitz... allow Colbert to entertain YOU and smile a lot... you can't help it... and remember, he's on our side!!! Have fun ;0)

Annie · 1 year ago

Steven Colbert is one of the best things that ever happened to the Democratic party. It still slays me to hear that people really think he's espousing right wing causes. Ahhhh--The Reporrrrrr..........


















Stephen Colbert is one of the 10 best things that has ever happened to the Democratic Party. It still slays me to hear people who complain about his "right wing" philosophy. Stephen is always current to the moment. Be prepared for him to have made you an ACORN Halloween costume, and to ask you why you shouldn't wear it proudly. It gives you a chance to toss in a fact or two about the whole distortion, and to point out that if he's looking for real, legitimate, certified nuts, he need only view the footage of any McCain/Palin campaign stop.

























As Steven is always current, be prepared for him to have made you an Acorn Halloween costume, and to defend his contention that you, are in fact, the Chief Acorn. He will have evidence, for sure. Your best defense may be to counter with the fact that Acorn is just a little tiny part of the culture, and that the real nuts can be found at any McDain/Palin gathering.

Rick · 1 year ago

Shirley, you jest.

Your job is to be George Burns not Gracie Allen. Feed him a decent line and let him run with it.

Mel · 1 year ago

Bring a McCain string puppet. Whatever question is asked about McCain, bring out the puppet and ask, "Are we talking about the OLD McCain who promised a clean issue oriented campaign, or this McCain who has his strings pulled by the radical right?" Do we really want to elect a puppet? Can a puppet hear the phone at 3AM?

Sandi · 1 year ago

I believe he will hit you on the You Tube nightmare. Follow his lead. Cobert is brilliant. He will make your points for you. Also, like Robert said complement him. Tell him he should be in this race. He did announce his candidacy!!!!

David Small · 1 year ago

Ask him why, with his basic reliance in his political profile on his time as a war hero and POW,has McCain such a terrible record in Congress of the opposite of support for veterans and the other POWs left behind in Vietnam? why has the mainstream press been somehow afraid to openly reveal this part of McCains's personal history?

TCB · 1 year ago

Hi Robert,

There is no defense against the Colbert:)
His agenda is much different than anyone else's.
And it's got several side,s all of which go for humor.

Have fun, make fun, bait him with good joke material, that will give you more of what you want and make folks remember you (idea).

That's about all you might be able to do.
Ask, if he's going to vote for Tina Fey for VP etc.

jack Pacheco · 1 year ago

Ask him why it's only the Iraq war supporter who demean our troops with terms like "Cut and run" and "Return with their heads hanging down."

Debby · 1 year ago

If you actually watch the show, you'll realize he's bashing the republicans a lot more than the dems. His rheteric is dramatising the narrow mindedness and absurdness of republicans. -He's making fun of his "character"...Steve Colbert.

L&#237;cia · 1 year ago

I am sorry! I wanted to write "And, most certainly, you are NOT the official representative of the people of the United States".

M.Tamanes · 1 year ago

Ask him to ask McCain if he have regrets of the dropping bombs to civilian in Viet-Nam, and if from that is he became a "hero".

Mary Vanderbeck · 1 year ago

I'm guessing you don't need my advice. But I would like both of you to discuss the implications of the content of the video; McCain to End the Politics of Hate. That needs more air time to get the message out. McCain and Palin are responsible for threatening Obama's life by rallying people with hate mongering and that is a more serious issue than anything right now.

M Gilbert · 1 year ago

When he asks a no-win question like that, ask him when he quit beating his wife.

dale voss · 1 year ago

Whatever he bring up as questions, you could respond by attaching him to "Cluelius George", which I think is a good word that he in the future can attach to GWB

Mary Grace · 1 year ago

Better still, pull out the Pinocchio nose and put it on Stephen, cuz after all HE will be the one you catch in an UNtruthiness!

Kristine · 1 year ago

He will DEFINATELY ask you: "so what terrorists do you pall around with??"...then you should say: JOHN STEWART...lol....
If he insults Obama at all...tell him your going to "sic McCains KKK-Clan after him"....those dirty dogs...What happened to JACK CAFFERTY on CNN? He is an OBAMA supporter and suddenly he has been off for over 2 weeks??? Bet those Repooblicans paid CNN to get rid of him until November 5th....

Keith · 1 year ago

If you get a chance to ask Colbert a question, I would turn the tables on him and ASK HIM "Who hates America more - him or [fill in a Republican name]? Or turn a different question of his back on him.

Peter · 1 year ago

Take a look at two examples of Colbert in action:

Maggie · 1 year ago

It's a comedy show! Just bring your sense of humor.

Dave Lynch · 1 year ago

Hey Robert,
Just go with an open mind, breath and, even though the situation is dire, have a sense of humor.

You could never in a million years guess what his questions will be, but if you're clear of mind,
enjoy his wonderful wit, it will come to you.

Colbert is outstanding, and you will be to!

Now, go save the world!

Dave Lynch
www.DaveLynchForCongress.org

Jim Watson · 1 year ago

How about these as possible questions:

When did you decide you could lie and say anything you want to about John McCain?
You seem like a very angry man. Does that make you sympathetic to John McCain?
America is at war. It seems to me that we need an angry man in the White House to go after our enemies before they even think about attacking us.
The McCain Doctrine: Preemptive Fury

peter stone · 1 year ago

Ask "Stephen, do you receive your talking points directly from cheney/rove or does Papa bear foreward his?"

John D. Warner · 1 year ago

You need to ask Steve "How can i get Right to the problem with the Left or Do i turn Left to avoid the problem with the Right? We have to turn somewhere Steve, can we turn to you? If we turn to you, what is your favorite color? Red? Blue? Or are you like me? My favorite colors are Red, White and Blue because i am a Progressive and that means that i am a Patriot"
Hows that?

Ken Mattos · 1 year ago

If he opens with such an absurd question, which he loves to do, return with a question. Challenge the premise of the question right off the bat. Do not become stuck in belabored explanations. The program format does not allow for that.

Maybe ... "Why do you ask such falsely constructed questions?" Can be more pointed. "Phony" instead of "falsely constructed."

Bernadette Vadurro · 1 year ago

No matter what Stephen throws at you, look him straight in the eye and LAUGH (like he just told you the most hysterically funny joke), then proceed with what you want to say...If he presses you on the question, promise him YOU will get back to that, but you'd really like to share with him /xyz first. And THANK YOU for your videos---you are my hero! Good luck, we will be watching and rooting for YOU! Go Robert!!

Doris Ewing · 1 year ago

He may ask you why Obama had 1400 ads and McCain only had 8 in Northern VA. They are saying Obama has more negative ads than McCain, that is because McCain ran out of money right? Here in VA I near lots of Republicans say why waste my vote? You could say if he asks about McCain and his economics that the videos are words spoken from McCain's mouth recently not stuff that happened when he was 8.

Annie · 1 year ago

Sorry, my last comment is disjointed. Choose either of paragraph one or two and add it to paragraph three. The text box was playing trick as I was trying to type. (Pretending the message had disappeared.) Maybe another Halloween trick?

Jason · 1 year ago

be the counterpunch...

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/28/opinion/28dow...

mark fabiano · 1 year ago

Pull a Sarah Palin. Answer a question in your head, not the one asked, and say you want to talk directly to the people of the Colbert Nation.

Dr. J · 1 year ago

You have received a TON of excellent comments. Among my favorites are the folks that remind you that this show is satire and to go with the flow. As far as question FOR him, "Why, sir, do you want to flush America down the John?" He might even get a kick out of that. Have fun!

Deanna · 1 year ago

I would ask him why he was chosen to be a "Limited Edition" flavor for Ben and Jerry"s? What was the REAL reason behind the flavor choice. WHAT exactly was the waffle representing? WHAT was the relationship to the swirl of caramel? Inquiring minds really want to know.......

Bert Crews · 1 year ago

Tell Stephen you want to talk about your NEXT film "Stephen Colbert: Greatest Person EVER" and have a film clip to show of SC's 3rd grade teacher predicting how great he will be. Make the teacher Michael Moore in drag.

Peter · 1 year ago

1. His brilliant takedown of Geo. W to his face at the White House Correspondents Dinner. He also took down the MSM with Bush.
2. His recent interview of Oliver Stone, who played so nice that it gave Colbert little opportunity to "mock" him and allowed Stone to make his pitch for his W flick.

susie · 1 year ago

PLEASE ask him how McCain can still be portraying himself as Honest and trustworthy and accountable when he continues to broadcast lies and half truths and say things completely out of context.

Paul Schunemann · 1 year ago

While no one can predict the precise question that you will be asked, one can make a good guess as to some of the characteristics it will have. And, you can go in with a predetermined strategy on how to respond to whatever he throws at you.
Colbert's program is a comedy show, first and foremost. And it's style of comedy is satire. He plays the fool, the buffoon--a riff on someone named Bill O 'Reilly, apparently. And, so he wants you to satirize yourself, as well, in order to get laughs. If you play it straight, you will be fodder
The question he asks you will be a "laugh line". If it succeeds, the audience will laugh before you even respond. Your job is to play along and elicit laughs with your response. If you help Mr. Colbert get his job done, by being funny, he will help you do yours. (He is, after all, clearly a liberal at heart.) Just don't try to upstage him.
For instance, two possible responses to the, "Who hates America more, you or Michael Moore?" question could have been, "Well, I'd say it's pretty equal, now. But he hated it, first, so you gotta give him props for that. I only started hating it when I found out we had to include the Alaskans. I mean, I thought we stopped at Canada. Who knew? [Then, if it had seemed like he'd have liked you to keep going, you could have added:] I was, already, creeped out by this whole Hawaii business. You know, it's a state, too? I thought it was a water park. And Obama's from there. I mean, I knew you had be born in the US to run for president. Then it turns out, THAT COUNTS!? So this whole thing's had this big learning curve for me. It's like Lincoln said, 'What a long, strange trip it's been'."
Or, you could have gone with succinct: "Probably him. I been in recovery for twenty-four months, now. You know, AHA, America Haters Anonymous." [And, if it had looked like he wanted more:] Just got my second chip, in fact. [pause] But I am getting drunk a lot more."
In short, agree with the insult. Go with it. Satirize yourself. Don't be defensive. Be funny. Colbert will make your talking points for you. Just always leave him in control. Remember, it's his show.

Keith Weisenburg · 1 year ago

First of all: Forget the notion of trying to "Nail Cobert". He's a comedian, you're not.
He's funny....guess what?
Stay cool, stay calm. Stay intelligent. In short, stay above the fray my friend. Let him make the wise cracks, that's HIS job, not yours.
Truth and Justice is indeed on your side. Not too shabby eh? Relax and enjoy the show.

Amy · 1 year ago

If he catches off guard, how about answering "Thanks, but no thanks." "I may not answer the questions you want me to, but I am going to be straight with the American people."

It "worked" for governor Palin in a Nationally televised debate.

David Floeter · 1 year ago

His question reminds me of the old saw, "So when DID you stop beating your wife?" It makes one "appear guilty" and places one in a defensive position.

If he attempts a similar tactic, you may try to throw the question back in his lap to give you more time and force him to Reframe any more accusatory questions.

FOR EXAMPLE: That first question from that first interview, "Which of you hates America more?" YOU COULD HAVE ASKED HIM, "Define this -AMERICA- that you say we hate?"

That would have placed the pressure of his attack back in his lap and forced him to give you something better defined to respond to. It would also have given you more breathing room to re-center and put the interview more in sync with your rhythm.

So from an Aikido perspective, it is not so much about "nailing him" as it is about taking his attack, blending with it (to expand the energy) and turning it around on the attacker.

Look at how Obama has repeatedly used the aiki approach so effortlessly w/McCain. One example I loved was when Obama called McCain to suggest jointly announcing in a press conference that they were both suspending their campaigns to work on the financial crises. McCain agreed but we all know that he went behind Obama's back and tried to steal his idea and announced it by himself while Obama was driving back to his hotel room.

Obama's response was wonderful, "Well as President, I think one needs to be able to focus on more than one issue at a time." (paraphrased).

My point here is why confront anger or any attack with the same? If you can acknowledge that energy then turn it around, you have a chance of creating unity where there was division before. That is where Obama excels so naturally just in being who he is.

Best wishes.

Dennis · 1 year ago

Colbert is a great opportunity to make news. Say something sound-bite'ish that will get picked up on "Good Morning America" the next day!

Two Ideas:
#1 Sara’s Appeal to the Halloween Electorate
"I'd like to know what Sara Palin is going to do about the problems we're having with Witches. Halloween is approaching and Sara has all this experience with her pastor who drove a witch out of a town in African before coming and laying hands on her. I really think the Republicans can get the upper hand on the Halloween electorate. This could be the swing vote they need!

#2 Hate Mongering by Association
How about... "Turns out that John McCain is a lesbian"... apparently he was once in a room with one. We all know what it means if you "pal around with a lesbian".

Or something silly like that which makes for good theater and prompts discussion. I really like the "Halloween Electorate" bit. Timely.

dortez · 1 year ago

He will ask you why you need help in nailing him? Most likely he will bring up this blog post.

Rick Davis · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert if McCain ever had a better presidential campaign that he himself.

Gregory Kruse · 1 year ago

You're an idiot if you think you are going to nail Colbert.

Wendy Mizenko · 1 year ago

I think you should ask him what he thinks is really happening where we have a movement in this country, hiding behind the name "Christian" who does not care at all about McCain but getting Palin in the VP position so in the future she can run for the President. A woman who creates her own reality, who wants to change the history books, who wants to ban books, believes other countries and leaders are evil - gee who does that sound like? WHO knowing she was pregnant with a Downs Syndrom baby, and put her pregnancy in further risk by finishing a lecture in TX when her water broke, flew 8-12 hours back to Alaska in labor--why would someone do that? Why would she put her unborn baby in further risk? Why?

Jack Boyer · 1 year ago

Steven Colbert seems to bcoming from the right with a lots of satire. But he will let your message come through loud and clear with humor. So enjoy yourself and have fun.

al m · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert, who is supposedly a reporter,to find out why Mccain is considered a hero?

He was shot down on his first mission and fully cooperated with his captors, so why is he considered a "hero?"

Coward is more the word.

Myra Donnelley · 1 year ago

Robert - with these media attack dogs you've got to go for the jugular. Attack first and ask Colbert what his middle name is! Be sure to pull a McCain and ask rhetorically, "Who really is Steven Colbert - conservative lapdog or covert member of the liberal media establishment?

The Rev. William J. Fleener, S · 1 year ago

Maybe you could put him and both presidential candidate teams on the defensive by asking him if he personally gives .7% of his own income to Millennium Development Goals programs. Every 15 minutes over 300 children, worldwide, die from poverty-related causes; over 100 of them die from lack of access to pure water. Governments, businesses and individuals can turn that around by 2015, just by giving $7 of every $1,000.00 of our income to the 8 MD Goals. Push him to get off of jokes and embarrassment to create real change, not only in the USA but around the world.

Ken Williams · 1 year ago

Yep - lighten up is good advice. Coolness is how well you lose, not win... If he agrees have your staff prepare a Robert Greenwald "exposee, equal time" video ready to show [I'm sure your staff can put one together...] and nope, you can't see it before hand!

Michael Rupp · 1 year ago

Stephen's innate logic is so amazing that he can twist it to his comedic advantage better than Woody Allen while you are still speaking a sentence. His character is his highest priority, so much so that many people don't know it's a character. Compliment his character as if it is real; get it on a pedestal. Tell him that his conservative values give him super-human intellect. Say, "you know the person in politics that reminds me of Reagan more than anybody else? ... You." Maybe even compliment him scientifically on the manly results of his formula 401; "99.8% its children have giant balls. The other 0.02% were born beautiful women."
http://www.colbertnation.com/the-colbert-report...
This will distract him from the combat mode.

Here are some ideas to prepare for when he is distracted. Review what a friendly interviewee says to Bill O'Really and use similar sentences, but find key words that you can replace with rhyming words that change the meaning of the sentence entirely; it's akin to an intended Freudian slip. It will get by him and after he makes a reply, then you can reveal that you nailed him.

Or you can try to remove the funny. Think first about any game he built into a question, and then reveal the game to the audience. Typically he will give two choices and ask you to pick one when their are other options. He will make a slippery slope concept into a black or white choice, or vice versa. Reveal that it is an inappropriate set of choices for the question. You can also reverse it back on him instead of revealing it with a similarly structured question that makes the absurdity obvious.

Some people have successfully distracted him by outrageous claims that he couldn't recover a line of thought to the "Nailed" that he was lining up. If you feel pinned down try saying this, "Oh I forgot to thank you for the fluffer (pre-paid hooker) in the waiting room. I heard you had candy and water in there. Now I see that it's Candy that makes your guests wet." He will be busy trying to not laugh and work the comment into the show and he will forget the nailing.

BTW, I believe that when Steven "Nail's" somebody, us ordinary viewers love the nailed person even more.

Emily · 1 year ago

I think the best advice is to a) wing it, and b) watch other episodes of the show and watch how other guests handle him/let him handle them... I thought Naomi Wolf in particular did a good job the second time she came on. I think if you watch for it, he will bring things around to the point pretty quick. Follow his lead and take it from your angle. Good luck, we'll be watching!
:)

robin · 1 year ago

Preface all replies with either: 'My Friend' or 'My Fellow Prisoners' and end every phrase with 'You Betcha'.

cynthiajohnston · 1 year ago

How about you ask him, "Brave New Films... Good production company or GREAT production company?"

Julie · 1 year ago

Just bring a picture of a Grizzly Bear and hold it up to him anytime you need him to clam up.

coyote bob · 1 year ago

Robert ...Ask Mr.Colbert why he & so many of his conservative friends are so-interested in the world...ending-as-soon-as-possible...and are thus,invested in McCain-Palin facilitating that ignoble process.

Intentionally Kind · 1 year ago

Dude, the whole premise of the show is snark! Oliver Stone gave THE BEST interview last week about his new film "W", by JUST PLAYING ALONG, and pretending (like Colbert) to absolutely LOVE conservatives. JUST PLAY ALONG AS THOUGH YOU ARE TRYING TO HELP McCAIN ... YOUR WORK IS JUST "STRAIGHT TALK", GET IT?

Mary O'/donnell · 1 year ago

Colbert is brilliant and funny. You come on brilliant and funny, answer with a laugh or another quesion of your own You're brave, you're smart, this is a good show, think "I got invited so I'm good" We'll be watching and cheering you on.

Ross Basch · 1 year ago

I thought you did well last time. You could ask him if he is responsible for the rumor the Bill Ayers ran a pre-K that brain-washed Obama.

totmur · 1 year ago

you wont nail colbert. it is his job to nail people. most likely he will counter nail you by making fun of your needing help to nail him. which will in turn nail you.

nobody nails stephen colbert. nobody. ill put it into better terms, stephen colbert gave birth to chuck norris. that is how intense stephen colbert is.

Bon · 1 year ago

Please, Stephen, we're here to stay focused on the issues. That is our agreement. Now...who does your hair? Because it's magnificent.

TJ · 1 year ago

Just reply, "Yea, aren't those videos great? I was lucky to catch it all live and make these with little modification. Sort of catches the "real essence" of this new GOP, doesn't it? If they hadn't have taken their mask off along with their gloves, I wouldn't have been able to make these for the viewing public. Have you done any material on this new patriotism?" Then, just throw something else in, like, "Say, have you heard? Chaney and Nancy Reagan are in the hospital again today on Oct 15th? Isn't it wonderful how much health care they have been able to access over the last 8 years? I wonder if Chaney pays his deductible or if his insurance carrier is getting ready to cancel him....you think this is a "pre-existing condition"? Oh, and how about that plucky Palin pucking in Philly the other night? A real crowd pleaser, isn't she? I think it's great that, in letting Sarah be Sarah, we finally have found out what is in her head (mind?)....right? Her campaign rallies are downright enlightening; no wonder she couldn't talk to Charlie and Katie. What she wants to talk about is more suited to a mob, right? Now we know why she believes the Constitution will permit her to be "flexible" in her role as VP; that's what she does in Alaska and it has been quite successful, so, why not? Yeah, no doubt about it, she's quite the tart! Enough of that, let me tell you about my next project. It's going to be all about Sarah's radical right pals in Alaska, you know, that AIP party her husband belonged to until she hired that PR agent to prep her for national candidacy? They are going to be really helpful with all those "domestic terrorists" Sarah and McCain are so concerned about. They are already armed and ready to go with basements full of arms, I'm told, by the leader of the AIP. He was very forthright in an interview with Salon.com. That should be one of my videos you will really enjoy. If you liked all of these, you'll LOVE that one!"

Audrey · 1 year ago

Watch the Oliver Stone interview! He did an amazing job of deflecting Steven's attack. He agrees and goes with the flow so Colbert has no where to go.

http://www.colbertnation.com/the-colbert-report...

DBernstein · 1 year ago

He is going to know you sent out this email and he will point it out and go right for that at the start.

Alex · 1 year ago

How's about addressing a flat tax across the board
killing the guestworker program especially in the IT industry! haven't found work in a year in my field with 9 years experience.

BB · 1 year ago

Be comfortable. Be yourself. Be relaxed.
Last time you were on the show, over preparation created nervousness.
Enjoy the experience and speak your mind in the moment.
Trying to second guess what Stephen will say is an exercise in futility.

Steve · 1 year ago

You could always turn the conversation back to Colbert and suggest, since he is the consumate mouthpiece and very adept at non-answers, that he 'campaign' for Communications Director for the new Obama administration, or Secretary of State.

John D. Warner · 1 year ago

You also need to remind Steve that all national holidays have Progressive roots; Father's Day, Mother's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Festivus, The Soltices, Halloween and most importantly "Stephen Colbert Day" which is today October 16.

Ray and Pat Squyres · 1 year ago

Always turn the conversation back to him and what a great comedian he is regardless of topic. everyone wants to hear about themselves --here are some you tube videos that Colbert did:

www.youtube.com where he skewers Bush

www.youtube.com where he skewers OReilly

www.youtube.com Colbert Busted on To Catch a Predator
www.youtube.com Stephen Colbert shmoozes about Dubya
www.youtube.com Stephen Colbert Endorses Ron Paul!

Carol Bayard · 1 year ago

Tell him that it's time to end his charade. He should be telling the American people that hate can kill and has killed for generations. Ask him if he is a member of the KKK. Okay, he has a gimmick of pretending to be a right wing moron. It's time for him to grow up!

Jean · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert if he knows about Mcain's "palling around" with G. Gordon Liddy who once said that if the FBI showed up, "Aim for their heads, because they will be wearing bullet proff vests." What kind of domestic terrorist is that?

Sharon · 1 year ago

The 1st time I watched The Colbert (pronounced "Colber") Report (pronounced "Repor"), I couldn't figure Stephen out at all. I thought he was some right-wing "pundit" like Limbaugh or O'Reilly or Hannity. But, there was something about the show that was puzzling to me, so I kept returning to it. After a while, I realized he was really taking on the Republicans, etc. and making fun of them. Not very often, but sometimes, he'll make a disparaging remark about a progressive issue just to throw people off for a minute, but it's all in good fun.
Whatever he asks you, remember he's really on our side, and he's a comedian.
Try to throw him off by asking him what his red wristband stands for, and ask him if he'll give you the one he's wearing!!! I know he's passionate about that wristband--I forget what it stands for, but maybe he'll spend time telling you about it.

Manley · 1 year ago

Ask him if he will join my campaign for civility which I initiated yesterday. See below:

Dear Friends,

Throughout history, there have been incidents where entire peoples or individuals have been singled out for ridicule, discrimination, and hate, by virtue of their religion, color of their skin, countries of origin, or any other criteria - things such as a middle name - that a sizable mob can seize on to perpetuate their hate. When the mob is large, or noisy, or virulent or dangerous enough, other citizens, while sympathetic to the target have been cowed by fear and self-preservation into inaction, which only encourages the mob into further hate.

It is not too often that decent persons have the opportunity to do something without fear of reprisal. Sometimes, an individual will say, "What can I do? I am only one person. My puny efforts will mean nothing."

Recently we have witnessed a resurgence in a campaign of hate against Barack Obama by virtue of the fact that his middle name is "Hussein". People in positions of power, from forums through which they are able to influence others, such as TV personalities, and even a recent sheriff in uniform, have venomously spat out Obama's middle name in an attempt to vilify him by associating him with terrorists, dictators (such as Saddam Hussein) and other fanatics who share this name, and by extension, with other extremists who do not even share the name.

It is not surprising, therefore, that at recent rallies against Obama (which is what many rallies have become) there are people who shout out "terrorist", "kill him", and other equally vile epithets. What has American society descended into when a middle name we were born with becomes the target for the hate-filed mob?

Well, I for one am sick and tired of what I see in this campaign and am willing to contribute my puny efforts in the hope that it may have some impact on what's going on.

Starting today and for the next three weeks until the election, I have resolved to sign all my personal e-mail correspondence with a made-up, middle name of "Hussein". If that is what is riling up the mob, let them know that I too am "Hussein", and that I am willing to identify myself with, and show solidarity with, Barack Hussein Obama.

I call on all of you to join me in this. If enough of us become "Hussein" maybe we can stop the madness into which this election campaign is descending. At its core, this is not a Republican or Democratic issue but an issue of civility, decency, and a call to stop fear-mongering. If we don't do something now, where will it stop?

Feel free to forward this to as many people as you want and ask them, too, to join in this campaign for civility in American politics.

Respectfully submitted,
Manley Hussein Perkel

"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil, is for good (people) to do nothing" (Anonymous)

Harry Fini · 1 year ago

Here's more of a strategy than a question to pose. When Colbert shoots you a zinger that you aren't prepared for, buy yourself some time by zinging him right back with an answer such as, "Great question, Stephen, but before I answer, how about answering one for me, (and then have the zinger question ready for him). Not to skirt your request, here is a potential question for Colbert -- "Who do you think exploits the current regime more with self serving, self-aggrandizing and rich-beyond-belief careers? President Bush, Senator McCain, or you?" He may shoot back with a question to your question like "what do you mean by that?' or "Explain what you meam," to which you answer "Who do you think is making more money by their exploitive behavior turned careers -- Bush, McCain or you?" Keep the pressure on with question after question on his antics pursuant to your original question and never answer his zinger of a question. Even if you don't use my question, have a zinger ready, exclusive of any comments you want to make during the interview, and when he zings you, be ready with, "Great question, Stephen, but answer one for me first...." and be prepared to run with it.

Good luck! I'll be watching on Thursday for you.

Will Lutwick · 1 year ago

Just before the interview, you could get out of your chair and join him when he high-fives the audience members. At least, that would throw him off.

THE SOLUTION MAN · 1 year ago

THE PROPER ANSWER TO THE MICHAEL MOORE QUESTION WAS

"IF YOU DEFINE HATING AMERICA AS HATING THE HORRIBLE THING THE GOVERNMENT DOES TO ITS PEOPLE AND HATING HOW LITTLE THE GOVERNMENT DOES TO HELP WORKING CLASS PEOPLE THEN I GUESS WE HATE AMERICA
EQUALLY.

THE PROBLEM IS, THAT TO TELL THE GOVERNMENT WHEN YOU THINK THEY ARE WRONG AND GIVE THEM A SOLUTION
ON HOW TO DO THINGS BETTER IS THE DUTY OF PEOPLE IN A DEMOCRATIC SOCIETY AND IS THE MOST PATRIOTIC THING YOU CAN DO. MY COUNTRY RIGHT OR WRONG IS HOW HITLER CAME INTO POWER. TO SAY SOMEONE HATES AMERICA BECAUSE THEY DISAGREE WITH THEIR POLICIES AND UNJUST LAWS IS THE MOST DISTRUCTIVE FORCE IN DEMOCRACY."

WANT TO LIVE IN A COUNTRY WHERE NO ONE IS ALLOW TO DISAGREE WITH YOUR COUNTY, BECOME A CITIZEN OF
CHINA.

AND YES, YOU ARE ALLOWED TO SAY I HATE WHAT THE GOVERNMENT IS DOING TO PEOPLE WHEN YOU LIVE IN
A FREE DEMOCRATIC SOCIETY. THAT DOES NOT MEAN YOU HATE THE COUNTRY, IT MEANS YOU LOVE DEMOCRACY.

JenniferInOK · 1 year ago

Standard answers to absolutely any question (make sure you wink and say "you betcha" a lot):

"The American people want to hear my answer without the filter of the media, so I may not answer the question you want, but let me tell you the truth ..."

"Who is the REAL Steven Colber, I hear you've been pallin' around with the liberal media."

Michael Growmiller · 1 year ago

When Stephen asks you a question that catches you off gaurd.. just state " I'm sorry, can you repeat that question, I was mesmerized by your beauty"... ha!

James Collins · 1 year ago

You need to jump ahead of the latest McCain tactic and talk about his erratic, risky, gambler driven campaign. Read Rolling Stone and know your enemy. He is quite simply a spoiled Navy brat. My dad was a Colonel so I grew up with the Admirals kids in the "neighborhood". He's just an old, spoiled Navy brat. Sad.

telluris · 1 year ago

The only way to disarm Colbert is when you agree with him. I suggest you take a look at Oliver Stone's recent interview with Stephen. If you can get Stephen to smile, you'll know you have him on the ropes. But do keep in mind, he's one of us. Satire is a very rarified style of humor that is by nature contrarian that finds humor by using irony, exaggeration and ridicule to expose people's stupidity. I suggest that you don't worry to much about it and just go out there and have some fun with Stephen.

Julia Van Loon · 1 year ago

How about letting him now how many voters feels that Sarah Palin and the GOP's choice for her as a vice presidential candidate has influenced their fear of that party going forward. She has created a strong sense of insecurity with her beliefs and tactics that the country may be headed backwards to a time of lynching, segregation and no lines divided church and state. try that one on!

Tara Bradley · 1 year ago

I think you should refrain from using the term "nail" and stop this blog immediately as it makes you seem skiddish. You are not skiddish. He will ask you about this prep blog if you keep it going. Your films show me you are well prepared for anything; certainly for the likes of Stephen Colbert. Check out the www.abrahamhicks.com site for law of attraction specs that will get you much further than the practices of fear and attack. You are doing great-celebrate how powerful your films and voice are!

John · 1 year ago

I would ask Colbert what he thinks the place of humor and satire is in the face of the profound gravity of the issues this planet faces at present. Is it not conceivable that shows like his, SNL, The Daily Show, etc. simply encourage people to laugh away the problems of the world while the acute misery of so many, for which we as Americans bear major responsibility, fails to be addressed. Despite Colbert's genuine wit as a political satirist, I believe his program ultimately serves more as a distraction than as a service to advancing social progress. Regardless of how he responds, this question to me is aimed as much at the show's viewers. (You could also always throw in a question about how he could have crossed the picket line when his writers were on strike).

Mike McFarland · 1 year ago

I don't know what questions to ask... all I can say is GOOD LUCK!!!

Dwight Schmuck · 1 year ago

Ask him if he really likes the way BOTH McCain and Obama flip-flop on the issues and then ask him who REALLY picked Sarah Palin to run for Vice-President. Peace.

jeannie Scown · 1 year ago

As him why he is so darned cute. that'll stun him

Carl · 1 year ago

Tell him that it is a simple choice of lifestyle - you either make money off making serious matters funny, or you you make change by making serious matters public.

DBernstein · 1 year ago

oh and not sure if this was said or not, but you should make a quick Robert Greenwald short on Stephen Colbert himself. Get videos of his past work.. like him on the Bewitched movie he did starring Will Farrel. Find other clips of his old work and show "The Real Colbert"

Garret Merriam · 1 year ago

Steven, you call Bill O'Reilly "Papa Bear"; remind me again, what is the the greatest threat to this nation? (Hint: BEARS!)

Jackie · 1 year ago

Try to a create connections between John McCain and bears, which Colbert hates. Also, he's been on an Emmy kick lately, so you may want to allude to that as well.

Patricia · 1 year ago

I thought that the Colbert Report was satire. Do you mean he is serious???

Garry Minor · 1 year ago

Start right off by talking about HEMP!
Steven loves to talk about Kaneh bosm, Cannabis, Hemp! He knows it can save the World!
In fact he would love to talk about how anything made from oil, coal, timber, or cotton can be made ecologically friendly with it, and that all paper, plastics, packagings, fuels, lubricants, textiles, paints, varnishes, plywood, structural components, insulations, many health foods, cosmetics, and medicines, over 25,000 products can be made with it! That it grows with little or no fertilizers, herbicides, or pesticides to foul the soil and water, in climates and conditions other crops won't grow. And also, that it is at the very minimum four times more efficient per acre than corn for ethanol production, and, that farming just six to eight percent of our farmland in hemp would satisfy our current demands for oil and gas. Heck, it's all True! Talk about it!
He would also like to talk about how THC is proven to cure cancer, promote the growth of brain cells, both prevent and cure Alzheimers, and, that the hemp seed is the single most nutritiously complete food source on Earth!

Get him going on that! Just say let's smoke a peace pipe and talk some cannabis hemp! You won't be able to shut him up!

One more thing! You can alway's bring up the fact that in the original Hebrew text of the Old Testament that it was God that instructed Moses to use 250 shekels of "kaneh bosm/cannabis" in the oil to anoint all Priests, Kings, and Prophets, for all generations to come, including that of Jesus and even today as the title Christ/Messiah means literally; covered in oil, Anointed!
Steven's really big on God too!

Kaneh bosm! The Tree of Life!!!
Food, fuel, shelter, medicine, pleasure, spirituality, Unity!

Pssssst- Do something!!!
Maybe you should research the subject of "kaneh bosm" and do a film on it! It's True!!!

If you know the Truth the Truth will set you free!

RJCAS · 1 year ago

Go immediately to Barnes and Noble or any other bookstore and buy a copy of Jonathan Swift's "A Modest Proposal." Read carefully and then you will understand how to deal with Colbert (who has continuously acknowledged his gratitude for being introduced to Swift at an early age.). Do not be afraid; join the fun and have a good time. Buy in!

Ri · 1 year ago

I wonder why McCain consistently votes against benefits for veterans and nobody brings it up. He says he votes against them because they have too many earmarks. The problem with that is that people don't give a crap about the earmarks if it is for our veterans.

Asking who hates American more, you or Michael Moore, is not a question. You obvious love America and its right to say and do the things that express your politics.

Off the wall, he might ask why you are afraid of McCain. You could say that you are not afraid of McCain, but his policies are a dead end.

Think twice about every question he gives you. If they are dead ends, then rephrase them and then answer.

WhyArts · 1 year ago

Beat him at his own game, of course. Pretend you're Bill O'Reilly!

Bukko in Australia · 1 year ago

There's a cheeky celebrity interviewer here named "Rove" (he only goes by one name, and he's not KKKarl.) His trademark question is "Who would you turn gay for?" I don't think Colbert will ask you that. So ask it of him.

And remember, Colbert is supposed to be funny. I suggest you try to do the same.

praxtiprat · 1 year ago

Just say that you've had people asking you to ask him [because it's really hard to get ahold of such a popular guy] if he REALLY loved America like he said he did in his book [I Am America:And So Can You] why didn't he go NATIONAL in the presidential race so we wouldn't have to be faced with a choice between youth[or truth] impaired guy like mc same or a nice guy like obama-hey Obama is fabulous but he's no Steven Colbert....

Scot · 1 year ago

Just remember that John McCain, who had very little support and couldn't draw a crowd before he named Sarah Palin, is now running on her skirt tails. And she doesn't know what she's doing.

And by the way....we're all very tired of the attacks, we want this to be over with.

J.L. · 1 year ago

This is the most important election I have voted in in my 61 years. Banks are closing, the mortgage crisis, a disgraceful American debt, millions of Americans can not get or afford health care insurance, corruption of most of our politicians, and a bail out of the corrupt banks, that the majority of Americans did not want, and they DID notify their Senators and Congressmen, Here is what made my decision:
Obama: Occidental College-2 years
Columbia University-B.A. political sciece
with a specialization in internatioal
relations.
Harvard Lae School - Juris Doctor(JD)
graduated Magna Cum Laude

Biden University of Delaware - B.A. in history
and B.A. in political science.
Syracuse University Collage of Law - Juris
Doctor (JD)

McCain: United States Naval Academy- Class rank
894 out of 899.

Palin: Hawaii Pacific University- 1 semester

North Idaho College- 2 semesters- general
study.

University of Idaho- 2 semisters
journalism

Matanuska-Susitna College 1 semester

University of Idaho- 3 semisters- B.A. in
journalism.


NOW I KNOW WHO TO VOTE FOR!!!

Dale Mead · 1 year ago

I agree that the bottom line is to keep pushing the videos. Promote, promote, promote. And aim to be more outrageous than Colbert, to make him laugh out loud. Think of him as a world-class tennis player with a huge forehand smash, and you have to smash it back. Don't defend, counter-attack - tongue in cheek, but ultimately self-promoting.

If he had asked me that question, I'd have said something like, "Are you kidding? We're racing to see who loves America more! If someone you loved had a drinking problem and you confronted them, would that mean you hated them? Of course not! You're willing to risk your relationship to save them. We're saving America from an administration that lies to us, spies on us, tortures, attacks the Constitution at every opportunity, and makes the middle class indentured servants to the rich. That's what Moore and I hate, and America is better off for our exposing it. Check out our videos. When it comes to hating it more, I think we're ahead, but Moore is tough competition. "

James Collins · 1 year ago

As for Steven relax, he is on your side. He just wants to get a laugh. Let him lead the interview, that is in fact the job he's parodying. Don't go in trying to nail him. Go in as his best friend, with whom you have some serious differences on policy (not really).

David Guth · 1 year ago

Tell Mr. Colbert you understand that McCain's election will make Mr. Colbert's job much easier: 4 more years of the same mistakes will allow Mr. Colbert to recycle the same jokes he's used for the past 8 years. Think of all the money he'll save by laying off half his writers and re-using old jokes!

Lisa MacAllister · 1 year ago

You will do great. Don't worry. I agree with the power of answering a question with a question. Are you a maverick if you spend 5 years in a POW camp yet continually vote against funding veteran's, including voting against funding shortages of body armor for our brave men and women? Does a maverick cancel his appearance on Larry King because Campbell Brown asked one of his spokesperson's to name one thing Palin did as head of Alaska's national gaurd? Opposes equal pay for women in the year 2008? Brings up Ayers, Chicago's Citizen of the Year in 1997, while he accepted money from fundraisers by his "good friend" Gordon Libby, who admitted he was "prepared to murder and kidnap" during the Watergate break-in, for which he served jail time. Does a maverick write a bill for amnesty for 12 million Mexicans and oppose tax cuts for the wealthy and then do a one-eighty to get elected? Does a maverick suspend his campaign for a must-pass bill and then days later speak as if you don't support it? Does a maverick put country first when he chooses a running mate who is so risky she they won't let the media ask her questions?! The "liberal" media has given this guy a free pass! Pssst, get the message out! Lisa, NH

Duncan Dow · 1 year ago

If he asks a question based on false assumptions, state that and ask him if he has stopped beating his dog yet.

If he mocks your (our) videos, laugh with him and mock his show. he responds well to counter attack. He loves it.

clint jones · 1 year ago

It scares me when tax advisers, politicians, lawyers
or any one who says "I'll fight for you!"
That is our fundamental problem;
everything has to be a conflict.
Fighting means someone gets hurt.
Isn't compromise a better way to go?

Mary Anderson · 1 year ago

How about telling him that Palin and McCain are becoming as big a threat as Bin Laden because they are scaring the hell out of people by telling them that our country will be in danger if Obama is elected. They are using fear as our big enemy, fear of Obama.

maria · 1 year ago

Are you people dense? The whole thing is a satire of the right wing types on Fox News. That is the brilliance of Colbert--to bring to the forefront how inane those people can be. I agree with Intentionally Kind. Just play along.

Randy Hurst · 1 year ago

Ask Stevie the following question: Benazir Bhutto said that Osama Bin Laden was killed and even named his murderer, so why do the politicians pretend to hunt for him ?

e foster · 1 year ago

Stephen Colbert is first and foremost a brilliant comedian. Many of your bloggers have it correct, just relax and have fun, he will let you get your message out in his "character's way". All you have to do is be witty while trying to keep up! Good luck, I'm sure it will go well because any time with Stephen Colbert or Jon Stewart is golden.

adam · 1 year ago

you are an idiot. This is a satire show. He is just joking around and is actually a big liberal.

ellen · 1 year ago

This is a joke, right? Stephen Colbert is a left leaning satirist who spoofs the Bill O'Reilly personna. I think a prior post from the nicster got it right. Play along and use obvious perverted logic to poke fun at McCain and Palin. In other words, out-Colbert Colbert. It is the comedy channel afterall.

Rick · 1 year ago

Colberts question: Why do you hate America?

Roberts answer: Speaking of hating America, are you suggesting that I replace Bill on Fox news, or Sara Palin?

Answer questions with questions

Jan Mosgofian · 1 year ago

1. Which of your videos does he like best?
2. Does he believe that videos like your and shows like his have a political effect.
or
3. Play his game, agree with everything he says, like Oliver Stone did. Go with the flow and laugh a lot.

David M Regen · 1 year ago

Go back to the question about who hates America the most. The answer is Grover Norquist the Republican think thanker who has weekly meetings with Republican leaders and who has worked for years for America to be bankrupt. Has John McCain attended those meetings, thereby hobnobbing with a traitor.

Ashes · 1 year ago

I agree with everyone here who says have fun with him! Prepare yourself for some tough questions but dont' be taken aback by them. Have fun with them. Smile and answer. He will guide the laughter. As for you or Michael Moore, I think the answer is simple. If you didn't give a damn about this country, you wouldn't be doing what you're doing! Best of luck Robert! We're behind you!

Wendy Rambo Shuford · 1 year ago

For years I have heard comments from Nursing supervisors,when a nurse has a concern(not a whine)that she/he is told to get another job and when someone has a serious concern about our country,those who do not get it,say:"then why don't you leave"Type comments are immature at best.
My sense of Michael Moore and you are that you both care deeply for this country,are working hard to bring about awareness and wake up calls to help us bring about change for the better!!!
I find your films educational,thought provokng and am greatful for all that you bring to the table.

Jim Rogers · 1 year ago

Bob, it doesn't really matter what he asks you. Your stock answer ought to be:

That one!

Suzanne · 1 year ago

I like watching The Reepawr but honestly I don't know why he even has guests beyond having subjects to bounce his sarcastic wit off of. If you can find a question about him personally that will feed his ego then you may have a chance at "nailing" him, but I doubt you'll have a chance to make any points. Just smile and laugh at his jokes and give one-word answers and you'll be set!

SSG Lem Genovese - VN &amp; De · 1 year ago

Stephen:
Can you SMELL the desperation in McCain's Campaign staff ?
Do you trace a whiff of the ghosts of Richard Nixon and his Admiral paternal forebears turning over in their graves at the lack of reality in McCain's reactions to the current economic crisis and his total lack of clarity in how badly the Bush administration has ruined the last 8 years of this Nation's history that he has supported? Can you spell DENIAL ?
Ask Colbert if he honestly believes Sarah Palin could have won
a gubernatorial race in any other state other than Alaska.

william boune · 1 year ago

What the hell, nail him, it's all in fun anyway!

In light of recent crap in he media spilling out of the McCain (McLame) camp, he will ask, "Who is the biggest terrorist, Osama Bin Laden or Barack Hussein Obama?"

Reply, "Was the question, Who's the biggest terrorist, George Bush or John McCain?", that will get a laugh!

Make sure to mention Sarah Palin opening up the American Independent Party Convention this year, it always good to associate the right with it's most radical elements!

Don't forget Colbert is actually a liberal dressed up in conservative clothing playing a right wing wingnut, it is all satire!

Don't listen to these whooses, go for the throat! Just joking, don't hate me!

pallyg · 1 year ago

you should play it just as colbert does,ie, that,in support of him,you are trying to show the real mccain...the straighttalking maverick that his inept advisers are suppressing!

William Easton · 1 year ago

Colbert is a comedin making fun of right wing conservitives. You don't have to nail him. Take your time to respond, whats in your heart, whats your truth,speak them, have sense of humor, keep checking in with your sel,f are you coming from a real connected place in your self. However if you want to nail him, study how other people made him feel akward.
Jane Fond once sat in his lap and was coming onto him. That totally threw him off and was funny. Maybe in some other way you can tap in to his own akwardneess. Like turn the tables so you asking him the questions. After all he's play the comic roll of a right winger. Tap into that, like Mr. Colbert how can you as a right wing conseritive in all consciniuos support someone like McCain when he comes up with songs like Bomb Bomb Iran. That seems rather Beach Boys. Not something a consevitive of your up bring would tolerate.
Anyway Have fun, that in its self will say alot.

Dan Madigan · 1 year ago

I just saw Mr. Greenwald's last performance with Mr Colbert. I think you did great, but maybe like me, you take the truth so seriously and are so committed to the greater good, that we both forget many, many people see politics as only a game. As you know, it is more than a game, and real people get hurt when Tom deLay does criminal acts in congress.
Keep up the good work, I know you will do great on the "Colbair Repore", just keep in mind all his curve-balls are tongue-in cheek.

Bettie Anderson · 1 year ago

He will say:
So tell me Robert, after McCain takes your advice, what will you do do take up your time?

captainglom · 1 year ago

i don't watch colbert but since he's a comedian he's just doing job and his comment about michael moore hating america was probably sarcastic. being dour about our current situation isn't going to help any more than laughing about it. we're screwed either way

Rebecca Robins · 1 year ago

Ignore Colbert's rhetoric. Pick a word in his question (usually the verb), redefine it, then answer that question -- so that way you're using the tactics of the conservative Republican persona Colbert is playing. You change the reality and let Colbert react to that. And have fun with it, this is a 'comedy' show, right?

George Powell · 1 year ago

Ask him about the "truthiness" quotient of McCain's campaign. And tell him to stop resorting to cheap tricks with those "Have you stopped beating your wife yet?" questions. Who is more of a crypto-fascist -- Dick Cheney or Sarah Palin?? That's one for Mr. Colbert to answer.

anna douglass · 1 year ago

a good way is to avoid the question and ask a
one yourself. Has he seen "Zeitgeist", the movie, does he
know about "Curveball" has he seen " The last
Lynching" on Discovery Channel etc. etc.
Does he consider McCains hatred to be effive with
the world. Hate begets Hate, the biggest Security Risk! Does McCain believe in Racial Profiling? Would Obama be checked at the Airport because of his Middle Name?
Does McCain have a security check done on everyone he knows and meets? The political right
in this country is merely a bunch of "Christians"
trying to control people in the World.
Just turn the stuff around on him and leave him
speechless! Just talk and talk and talk and dont give him a second. Thanks for the work you are doing. Anna

John Manning · 1 year ago

Get a copy of his book and start by asking him to autograph it. You are dealing with the character of Bill O'Reilly, and it is Colbert's goal to make an ass of himself (Bill O). Just let the gigantic ego of Bill O. flow and laugh about it. It IS a comedy show -- you're not on "60 Minutes".

Joe · 1 year ago

The worst thing you can do is worry about what Colbert will ask you. There's no telling in advance what will come out of his mouth; he may not even know until he says it. And he is very quick on the uptake, so if you try to one-up him he'll very likely zap you. Just try to be as relaxed as possible (ha!-ha!) and respond with whatever comes into your head first.

Do you think Sarah Palin is HOT?

Linda Elvee · 1 year ago

I love Jon Stewart - but can't deal with Colbert - ask him what HE is doing to show love of his country - not just his satire - which whenever I watched seemed to be egocentric - but REALLY doing to help educate and inform the masses.

Deborah Dean Davis · 1 year ago

Robert, no one says, "Nonsense!" like you do. Use it. Lean back in your chair. Make him come to you. And don't laugh at him. I've been married to one of everything, including a comic. There is nothing that unnerves them more than a steely stare.

Christopher May · 1 year ago

Robert:

You and Brave New Films are doing terrific things with your videos!

If Colbert challenges you on the McCain videos, tell him about the one yet to be made on Senator McCain's adamant and successful and disgraceful action in the Senate in the early 1990s in blocking US government efforts to get accounting for his fellow American POWs in Vietnam
and Laos -- 614 of them? -- who did not come home when he and 590 others came home after the peace accords were signed in early 1973, and who never came home, and who never were accounted for.

Sydney Schanberg, distinguished reporter on Vietnam and Pulitzer Prize winner, wrote "McCain and the POW Cover-Up" about this in The Nation Magazine for October 6, 2008, and it is on The Nation's website.

Honorable John McCain? Or perfidious John McCain?

Christopher May
Deale, MD

Howard · 1 year ago

Colbert has fun becasue the question IS so unpected. Do a Sarah Palin i.e. "Stephen, that's a great question. But the question you should be asking me is why 7 million people are watching my little videos about McCain's problems OR can I borrow some hair plugs from Joe Biden." On tax cuts, mention that neither candidates plan goes far enough. The middle class is losing their homes and they're all broke so, obviously they can't manage their money so why give them tax cust and more money just to blow on things like food and clothing? Just give all the money to the rich and eventually something might trickle down.

Tim · 1 year ago

Colbert can ask something like: "Why do you support the terrorist" (His character's 'logic' will be anybody working against McCain is working for the terrorist)

Mike White · 1 year ago

i do not have cable (believe it), but didn't you also produce a video calling for releasing the medical records of one john mccain?

Ninetynine · 1 year ago

Ask Stephen why we can't create a Class Action Suit to sue Harvard Business School to have them redact the MBA's given out to Paulson, Bush and Cox and the Doctorate in Economics given to Bernanke?? Harvard gave them the car keys to drive this economy into a wall...shouldn't THEY be held financially responsible for the damage??? And, pay some of the damages??

Jim · 1 year ago

Colbert has sponsored at least one "Green Screen" challenge to add interesting background to McCain. All you're doing is taking that idea and adding the _real_ background to McCain - something to expose the issues, rather than distract from them.

Free market self-correction is like a drunk self-correcting as he staggers home. Do you want him to drive himself, or call a cab? McCain says he trusts the drunk market to drive itself, and Obama wants to call it a cab.

Jay Holtzman · 1 year ago

The most successful interviewees on Colbert, e.g. Christianne Amanpour, are the ones who laugh at Colbert. His interviews are not to inform; they are to mkae people laugh. So, don't take the interview seriously and don't see it as an opportunity to realy present important views. If possible, be more ourtrageuos than he is. Make jookes of everything he says nad try to make him LAUGH, not to take you and the videos seriously.

wjb · 1 year ago

How can you get tripped up on such a simple question as that? Colbert gave you a lead and your answer should have been: "We don't hate America, we love it and want to save it." That was the answer Colbert expected from you.

David · 1 year ago

You do understand that 'The Colbert Report' is satire....right? Its not Larry King or Crossfire. Why dont YOU lighten up and stop taking yourself so seriously. You'll probably make more of an impact and people will be more inclined to listen to what you say if you stop acting like such a douche. Lets face it, McCain or Obama, either way were screwed. The two party system is a dead horse, so why dont you stop beating it.

ANTONIO · 1 year ago

I never watch Colbert, because he is agenuine, all American true blue asshole. I wouldnt waste my time. The only thing I can think of is ask him why he runs around the room to applause that isnt his. Ask him
Why do you do that?
What?
Run around the room to applause that isnt yours?
Then think of what he might answer, and act accordingly.

Brette · 1 year ago

Here are some questions to be raised about McCain/Palin and their supporters:

The consorting-with-terrorist charge against Obama is the new racism. McCain now pretends to condemn this, but at the same time, what is he doing to discourage the baseless attack ads from his supporters? As we have seen, the base of the Republican Party become so base that some are actually calling for Obama's murder.

Don't the so-called "Christians" who have been sprewing vitriol in your films see the parallel between themselves and America- hating Muslims?

YourlocalCorvid · 1 year ago

You do know Stephen Colbert is not serious....I hope so he is so not a republican.

kirk · 1 year ago

i agree with those who say, "don't worry about colbert, he's on your side." his humor is attempting to skewer those he is lampooning by pretending to ask you stupid tough questions like the one about "who hates america more? you or michael moore." just flow with the direction he's going. the proper answer to that question probably would have been "well, i do, of course." to be backed up with reasons the mccain campaign tells you that you ought to love him, and how you are out to make sure everyone knows about the real mccain, anyway". this allows you to feed into his humor while making your own point in an almost similar lampooning style. say a few things about how you're out to get at the root of the "truthiness" of the mccain campaign, and you might even crack him up.

JenniferInOK · 1 year ago

I have been reading some comments and there are some great suggestions.
Polar bears is a great line to follow.
Props and gifts are great, but the best suggestion I have heard is to compliment him on his recent Emmy, but only in response to an extreme question like "who hates America more, you or Michael Moore?"

"Sure wish I had a shiny Emmy like yours."

Naomi D · 1 year ago

If Colbert brings up the relationship between Obama and Ayers, please speak to Palin's husband's membership in AIP and the "hate America" attitude preached by its founding member and others. Their aim is to have Alaska secede from the union. How patriotic is that?

vahid_99 · 1 year ago

It's just a comedy show; sit down and enjoy the ride!

michael rose · 1 year ago

I'd ask Colbert why doesn't the McCain campaign harp on "family values" non-stop the way Bush & co. did. Could it be that such a move would quickly bring out the fact that McCain has been chaing tail since he was a teenager, had numerous affairs (and one-night stands) while in his first marriage, and in fact is a bigamist since he married Cindy the beer heiress while still legally married to his first wife.

shirley mack · 1 year ago

You'll never nail him. His job is to be funny and the charcter he plays on his show is Bill O'reilly, shallow, narcissistic etc. And he is a progressive. I've generally noticed that at some point he will let you give you're liberal point of view. He's really on you're side but first and foremost he's a comedian and can't be nailed since that's not funny.

SubwayEd · 1 year ago

Ask him - "What would Capt. America Do?" and if he has an Answer to the McCain-Poll's prob then ask him - "And that would get the Aunt May Parker Vote?"

Polly Waring · 1 year ago

You gotta get in as many jabs as he'll let you. I've seen others trip Colbert up. There's another YouTube piece someone just sent me about Sarah Palin and her husband "pal'in around with domestic terrorist' Joe Vogler, head of the Alaskan Independent Party. Palin's husband was a registered member til '02. Their main platform was secession from the United States.

Alice Powell · 1 year ago

With a smile, stick to McCain's duplicity-- his own involvement with ACORN--actually a high point in his career--Phil Graham's role in creating current financial mess!!!!

bensil · 1 year ago

If you get caught off-guard, tell him his question will be answered in Brave New's upcoming "The Real Colbert" series, shot entirely with night-vision technology. When he pauses to think of a response, run.

mia arends · 1 year ago

You did fine last time. I think McCain manifests all the symptoms of PTSS, from his war experience. Also, isn't his health precarious? Don't the American people have to worry about how McCain's anger will affect his health? Palin would be just a breath away from becoming president- if McCain's melanoma returns, if his angry outbursts cause a stroke or worse- Palin would have to wink and get back to the crisis response after someone briefed her...

Terry Groff · 1 year ago

Just remind him that you've never shot an audience member.

Shirley Jin · 1 year ago

I suspect there will be a question about Sarah Palin.

Lisa Castro-Waldorf · 1 year ago

Get to the heart of what this election is all about: Ice Cream! Ask Colbert what funky ice cream flavors he would whip up for Obama and McCain if he had the ice dreamy powers of Ben & Jerry? B&J; came up with "Cherries for Change" and other Vermont folks came up with "Yes Pecan" (my personal fave). As you know Stephen has his own creamy creation: Americone Dream (it's actually pretty yummy)! Have fun making fun!

Barbara Lifter · 1 year ago

I hardly matters which or what question you are asked. As long as you repeat your desire for truth, clean, if possible, politics, and just tell it like it is. I perhaps might stress the fix we will ALL be in if something should prevent McCain form fulfilling his term and we wind up with Sarah Palin as president. That is the scariest thing!!

Pattie Schey · 1 year ago

Why is that anyone who disagrees with policy or events that show the injustice being done to the American people is considered hating America?

Why is it that in response to a documentary you(Steve Colbert) attack our first amendment rights to freedom of speech? Why? Why do you feel we should all be like a flock of sheep and say nothing in fear we are considered "America haters?'

Why is that as Americans we have become so "full of ourselves" that we take no accountability to things that have been done wrong and just plain f-ked up? How can we turn a blind eye to the injustice in our own country? Now that I consider hating America.

ELBSeattle · 1 year ago

You do know that Stephen Colbert is doing a character on his show, right? He is as right-leaning as you are. I appreciate you wanting to have a good answer prepared, but 'nailing' Colbert seems akin to 'letting Obama have it.'

Adrienne · 1 year ago

Excellent advice here. He might bring up this blog as I read posted earlier. Have to agree to laugh WITH him and roll with it. When he zings you, you could say "Oh no, one of those biased media questions. I have a list of newspapers I read (maybe hold up small piece of paper), so you cannot get me with that trick question".. you get the gist...
Looking forward to watching you on the REPOR

Terry Hall · 1 year ago

McCain puts the "ICK" in Maverick
When John and Cindy McCain first met, both of them lied about their age. AND they now think that's a cute story. Is there a pattern here?
Most of us, when we need to hire or appoint someone to stand in for us and do our job for a while if we are sick, or take care of our responsibilities for us after we're gone, try to find someone who can do as good a job as we do (like appointing guardians for our kids, or hiring successors for our business) Does McCain really think Palin can do his job as well as he can? Maybe he knows something about his own abilities and readiness that we don't!!
"Vote Fraud" - what possible reason could ACORN have to flood the election system with thousands of fake registrations, fake people who can't possibly show up on election day? And who has a motive to discredit ACORN and the thousands of legitimate new voters being registered for real? Umm... could it be fake ACORN volunteers . . possibly Republican Vote Suppression Guerrilla Warriors trying to create some kind of fake evidence of voter fraud, since they've never been able to find more than SIX real cases?? Duh. And where, exactly, are the investigative journalists of the major media who ought to be thinking these things through and figuring them out for us? As Hillary said, Get a Pair! oops, I mean Amy Poehler said.

liz · 1 year ago

What if he asks, "Why should McCain talk about the economy? Everytime he and Bush mention it, the market tanks?" Better, you should ask him.

camis · 1 year ago

He will start off with "Why do you want a terrorist in the White House?" and follow up with "But everyone knows you pal around with Bill Ayers" ---- (good luck!)

Camis

M. C. Gregg · 1 year ago

The most flustered I have seen him was when Jane Fonda appeared as a guest. She sat in his lap and planted a big kiss on him. If you do that I guarantee you'll be in control of the conversation.

chris · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert which of the many steps the Bush Administration has taken towards establishing a totalitarian regime is his favorite...
Good luck and have fun.

james · 1 year ago

colbert is just in character, my advice is just run with it, then you'll come off as having a sense of humor and not being an asshole

mamabear1 · 1 year ago

Decide what America needs to hear ahead of time: McCain has the worst vote attendance record of all senators in this Congress, McCain keeps voting against veterans, or that Sarah Palin is a domestic terrorist as her AIP membership is excited that she has infiltrated the Republican party with got support from IRAN and the leader is extremely anti American.

Say what you planned.
Don't listen to his questions.
PULL A SARAH PALIN like the debates make your speech regardless of the questions. Perfect.

Carla Ulbrich · 1 year ago

I'm a huge fan of Colbert. this is easy. Take a page from teh republican playbook (he does this all day long, so he'll love it if you do it!)- throw his own words back at him, and quote Palin as if you admire her.

1) beat him to the punch. if his first question is not why do you hate america, then answer *his* first question with "why do you hate america?

2) answer another question with "why do you hate the first amendment?"

3) when you get a question that stumps you look first at him, then the camera and say "steven, I'm not going to answer the questions the way you might like, but I'm going to talk straight to the american people. you betcha, doggone it. wink."

4) accuse him of palling around with elitists (people who read and write books, nobel prize winners, presidents of other countries and former presidents). how can we take him seriously if he's going to hang around people like that?

5) ask him (or the camera/ audience) who is the real steven colbert?

6) he will love this one- say to him -"Sir you are a worthy opponent!"

kick ass! colbert loves a good ass-kicking!

karen · 1 year ago

I second the suggestion that you make a short vid about "The Real Cobert". It would be hilarious and Steven would eat it up! Relax, have fun. Follow Oliver Stone's example. Can't wait for the show!

Richard McDonough · 1 year ago

Give him the Palin answer right away: I amy not answer the questions but...

Lee · 1 year ago

If you can't stand the heat don't go in the kitchen. Go the Rachael Maddow show if you really want to get in trouble.

Julie Brydon · 1 year ago

If Colbert asks you about "hating America" I would point out that Sarah Palin is the biggest hater of American, since she supportsthe Alaskan Independence Party, which would like succeed from the union. She doesn't even want to be an American!

I love Steve Colbert. Remember, he's making fun of right wingers, he isn't a crazy right winger himself. If anything, answer the question you want him to ask rather than the one he does ask and if he calls you on it, just say you're pulling a Palin!

Lorne · 1 year ago

Why, Mr. Greenwald, do you not want a strong, virile and ANGRY president?

Carla Ulbrich · 1 year ago

PS when you use #3 (below), saying you're not going to answer the questions, that is your big opening to make whatever big piont you are going on colbert to make.

Linda Harris · 1 year ago

If he asks "who hates America?" Ask him to define "hate America and love America" as the fore fathers, the framers of the Constitution would have. Would he consider Adams, Jefferson, Monroe an America hater or an America defender/lover? Repression of truth was HATRED of Liberties to the early Constitutionalists. Look up early writers attempts to teach through parody..for fear of retribution. Compare that to Colbert himself who can only be heard when he is in parody..right wingers are not sure if they should agree with Colbert or be insulted.
Ask him to use milder words...like and dislike...content and discontent. it's easier to discuss. It's easier for people to agree that discontent is merited..where they recoil at the word "hatred."
Yours and Colbert's world is built upon the creative energy generated by discontent. Without discontent there is no progress. Refer to the message of WALL-E.
Can I write for you?

Elton · 1 year ago

Jeez! What is it with 21st Century "liberals," anyway? Do you really think Colbert is a shill for the Right??? Grow a sensor of humor!

Try this, Bob -- come out dressed for Halloween as Jane Fonda, sit on his lap and try to kiss him. Then ask him if all the New York wine geeks he's been pallin' around with should be considered "domestic terroirists." Put on a John McCain mask and start singing "Mean Mister Mustard," then suddenly scream, "YOU KIDS GET OFF MY LAWN!" Bring him a joe six-pack of Caribou Barbie beer with Palin's photo on the label. And don't forget to wink!

F - Waldmn · 1 year ago

(TLK FAST CAUSE COLBERT WILL CUT YOU OFF BUT KEEP TALKING AS YOU'RE HALF WAY OUT OF YOUR SEAT CAUSE HE ALWAYS HAS 'LAST WORD' -'Tell' S. Colbert that "It's okay for him to "COME OUT OF THE CLOSET"- (that he's truly an 'Ultra- Consevative' and you (RG) refuse to answer a 'Stupid Question' with a 'Stupid Answer' where I'M (RG)concerned & YOU (S.COLBERT)ARE NO JON STEWART! (it would be audience effective for you to get up & LEAVE without saying another word even if against your principle!

rich · 1 year ago

Colbert will ALWAYS let the market decide (he decided global warming was real because An Inconvenient Truth made $100 million at the box office [or whatever it actually made]). Tell him the election is letting the market decide on Obama vs. McCain.

Fred Harrington · 1 year ago

You should give him a chance to bring in the latest issue of Rolling Stone magazine, which for the first time presents a really hard look at the real John McCain. On newsstands now, it will become a classic. Or read it online at:http://www.rollingstone.com/news/coverstory/make_believe_maverick_the_real_john_mccain

Colin Cromwell · 1 year ago

Colbert will more than likely ask about Ayers. Probably something like 'so how much does Obama like terrorists?' Don't even give it credence. Talk about McCain's transition manager being a lobbyist for Saddam and Palin's husband being a secessionist. Good luck, I'll be watching for sure!

kathleen williams · 1 year ago

Maybe Colbert will ask you about McCain calling his wife a cunt in public and why no one has brought this up and put it on youtube....

Natalie Hartman Whitnack · 1 year ago

I am the same age as McCain and wonder why many in our age group are supporting him. Could it be prejudice? I think of how many minorities with great minds and abilities were kept out of being all they could be. We may have lost the individual who could have cured cancer. When we have open the doors to the sports and arts fields look how they have excelled. Is that what we whites are afraid of, competition? In Obama we have a brilliant and compassionate leader. We are a Nation that is diverse and it is what has made us great. As Langston Hughes said, years ago..."We built your world oh white man and in the building it became ours too".

Nancy Nangeroni · 1 year ago

Job #1: have fun. Play with him. If you can't think of an answer, play like he's mortally wounded you. Don't try to upstage him with quips, that's his job, play gracious straightman while maybe taking a playful jab or two of your own. You'll win more votes by showing people that you're human and wise enough not to take yourself too seriously than by force of persuasion. Go in with two or three points to try to make, and don't try to do more, unless things go really swimmingly. Slip your points in whenever you can, otherwise relax and enjoy. I'd give anything to be in your shoes - enjoy it!

BTW, his "hates worst" question reflects the voice of the opposition; he was giving you an opportunity to refute those voices right off the bat. Don't forget, his humor comes from exaggerating the style of the Right. So bone up on what the Right is saying about you (you know Obama well enough), and be prepared to reply in good humor and with respect for your opponents.

ellen · 1 year ago

Yes. I agree with other posts. Use Palin's line "I am not going to answer your questions, I'm going to speak directly to the American People" And then say soemthing brilliantly satirical> There is so much to chose from. But no one knows that better than you. Thanks for the great work you do.

Scully McPhearson · 1 year ago

No one "nails" Stephen Colbert. The Colbert Report is theater of the absurd. Avoid going heavy or serious.

camis · 1 year ago

and then seriously, bring up the topic of poor people. all the talk about the middle class is important, but who would be "better" in terms of helping the poor. I know everyone is freaking out about money but oh take me for example - after working at great jobs for over 30 years, I had to stop working because of a neurological disorder. I live on disability now and am heading toward homelessness. Which candidate - - etc etc.

E · 1 year ago

Robert I hope your feelings weren't hurt, Stephen Colbert states right winged fanatical views and sided questions in order to get the absurdity across. He does not think you hate America nor do any of his viewers. So please stop this silliness.

Oh, Manley Hussein Perkel I believe the quote “All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that the good do nothing.” is by Edmund Burke who as a member of the English Parliament sought to repeal of the Stamp Act and urged justice and conciliation toward the American colonies.

E. Hussein Wood

Colette Friedlander · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert and his audience this question : what would you call people who advocate bombing and killing anyone they don't agree with ? Isn't that what terrorists do ? So what should we call the people who yell "Bomb Obama" and "Kill Obama" ?

S M · 1 year ago

Robert--just chill and roll with it--I'm sure you know it's satire

bill baker · 1 year ago

As you hear Colbert asking you one of his hilariously inane questions, become distracted by looking curiously at his glasses. Then ask him if he got them at Sarah Palin's lens salon.

Richard Hagan · 1 year ago

Stephen is a lot of fun and tongue definitely planted well in cheek...if one understands sarcasm. But if you totally wanted to blow him away, why not admit that Dems and Repubs are but two sides of the same coin of the realm, that are both responsible for the state of the nation and remind him that there are candidates 3-4-5...that instead of voting for cancer/polio once again why not vote for real change...for something instead of against the other... why not bring up the facts that both democrats and republicans have broken with the Constitution... Have taken us to where we are at today, that neither have a true plan to fix things, just more of the same...that law and order need to be applied from the top down instead of economics. Don't imagine that will happen anytime soon.

Joanne Thielen · 1 year ago

Believe it or not, Colbert is your friend. If he asks about hating America, remind him that Sarah supports the secessionist movement in AK.

cindy · 1 year ago

a few of your responders are lacking a sense of humor, methinks! clearly robert isn't SERIOUSLY afraid to face colbert! c'mon people! lighten up! get into the role....

i like the suggestions to pull a Palin, saying 'i may not answer the way you want me to' and say whatever you want to. throw in some 'you betcha's and wink a few times...

silvia renni · 1 year ago

Shred that dreadful Palin woman, and McCain f. picking her.

amy · 1 year ago

Ask him if it's true that Jon Stewart and Obama belong to the same Synagogue and that they've been spotted "palling around" with Leiberman's Rabbi!

And if you must push ahead into the muck of McCain's shameful record of inaction...Ask why, if McSame "understands and is the representative of our fighting forces", have had numerous scandals at Walter Reed Hospital, under funded education programs, no support for families and miserable health care for vets...Hasn't he been in Washington over a quarter of a century "fighting" about these issues? Maybe next time he channels Eisenhower or Reagan, we can ask to speak to them about it.

Richard McCurdy · 1 year ago

Don't take yourself seriously. Not to do so would be fatal. Also, turn any outrageous questions back on Colbert without looking defensive. Ask, "Why are you asking me that?" or "Do you really believe that?" (Watch Colbert take apart Bill O'Reilly on Youtube. A textbook example of taking control away from someone.)

Nancy Graham · 1 year ago

Quickly ask him:
"I know you are an insider and so is it true that Palin has a pet BEAR?"
I'm sure he will run with it. Have fun.

mamabear1 · 1 year ago

Bring props..maybe a stuffed polar bear or a sign...

"We Hate America Convention!"
Hear Sarah Palin address the convention and bless the group! THen she will teach you how to first join the AIP with your husband, infiltrate the Republican party so your state can secede from the American union with all that oil. THen run for president and get half of American citizens to forget you are a domestic terrorist by calling a black man a terrorist. Learn how to hate American patriots properly and issue threats at a Palin rally! Free seminars...just turn on Fox news or go to a Palin rally!
Get rich while you learn how to hate America properly!

Betsy Jacobson · 1 year ago

Muslim or Christian. In MY area not far from NYCity, people think Barack is Muslim.

SOME PEOPLE WHO HATE OBAMA CRITICIZE HIS INVOLVEMENT WITH CHRISTIAN REV. WRIGHT AND SOME PEOPLE WHO HATE OBAMA CRITICIZE HIS MIDDLE NAME.

Serving with mostly Republicans on the board of directors with a college professor who had been a minute man 40 years ago does not make these Republicans or Obama a terrorist.

Tony Fadale · 1 year ago

Ask Stephen how his presidential campaign is going.

haikuza · 1 year ago

Just be y'self. Laugh, roll with him & enjoy the ride! I agree, a big sloppy kiss wouldn't hurt either.

Rory · 1 year ago

talk abt shock jocks like Michael Savage and use that to segue to McCain and hate speech

(and don't forget to mention my book: SHOCK JOCKS: Hate Speech & Talk Radio!)

TK · 1 year ago

"Maverick" in the context of McCain = GAMBLER McCain is and always will be a GAMBLER.

- He GAMBLED with his choice of Sarah Palin – a heartbeat away from the presidency.

- He GAMBLED with the Keating Five & the Savings and Loan crimes.

- He enabled the growth of widespread GAMBLING while serving as chairman (twice) of the Indian Affairs Committee – resulting in unprecedented profits for casino owners.

- He GAMBLES with foreign policy presuming war is a the viable solution.

- He GAMBLES with the lives of soldiers in Iraq yet is dismissive about problems therein.

- He GAMBLES with conviction efforts to continue the neo-conservative doctrine.

- He GAMBLES with pathological desperation with the future of America.

- The Odds on GAMBLER McCAIN fixing Americas economic woes are less than zero.

Bill Cash · 1 year ago

Steve, who do the American people consider less relevant, you or Jon Stewart?

SusieQ · 1 year ago

It seems that the McCain people are trying to tie Obama to Rev. Wright currently, why doesn't anyone mention the church session of Sarah Palin being annointed by a pastor to chase the "Witchcraft" out of her presence? Her pastor believes in Witches? Show the Video. Thanks

Nancy · 1 year ago

What would Will Rogers do? Check out these quotes and do some rope tricks. They will disarm Colbert.
http://www.quotationspage.com/quotes/Will_Rogers

vigwig · 1 year ago

Check out this "Nailings" course at Colbert University for some of his best nailings. It might help, also just have fun, Colbert is "unnailable".

http://colbertuniversity.nofactzone.net/index.p...

Josh Colwell · 1 year ago

Ask him: "Who hates intelligence more: you or Sarah Palin?"

Mona · 1 year ago

Wow, I love this country and the people in it!! So we're not a bunch of brainless twits after all! To those people who voted for George Bush... (the ones who believe that John Wayne is a real cowboy)... turn the page! Time to stretch that incredible brain... accept that brown people can govern (even That One!)... women can govern (intelligent ones anyway), and living outside of Kansas doesn't mean you're an Arab or a terrorist. Thank god for the likes of Steven Colbert and John Stewart who can humorously skewer us all. Looking forward to seeing you on the show.

Greg Beilke · 1 year ago

You can't possibly "nail" Stephen Colbert. He is utterly un-nailable with all his truthiness. At some point you should just admit to him that preparing for one of his interviews is like "trying to nail jello to a wall." That should at least get a laugh.

SAndra Dean · 1 year ago

Robert,

All of your films are EXCELLENT, but the most recent one about the escalation of McCain's politics of hate and ignorance is the most disturbing. Democrats are not the only ones who find this low and dangerous behavior utterly despicable. Please mention the recent Frank Schaefer (lifelong Republican) op ed article in the Baltimore Sun which holds the McCain campaign responsible for any violence which may erupt as a result of these tactics. While occasionally feigning concern about the vein vein-popping hate the spills over at his rallies, McCain continues to allow Sarah Palin to whip the crowds up to a frenzy while he stands aside. Is this the behavior we want to see in a Commander in Chief? If McCain were sincere about his recent "defense" of Obama, he would run a respectful and unified campaign and call off the surrogate Pit Bulls he prefers to hide behind. Please call attention to this hypocrisy.

Thanks and Good Luck.

mamabear1 · 1 year ago

PULL A SARAH PALIN ...JUST MAKE THE SPEECH YOU PREPARED AHEAD OF TIME WITH YOUR TALKING POINTS REGARDLESS OF HIS QUESTIONS>>>IT WOULD BE VERY FUNNY AND WOULD GET A POINT ACCROSS ABOUT PALIN.

PUPPET!

THIS IS A GREAT CHANCE TO HELP THE CAUSE.

Tiny · 1 year ago

Mention that why is it that Google and utube are
closing down the McCain ads because they're breaking the rules of copyright on many of the popular professional singers songs ; using them
w/o consent. McCain wouldn't follow the laws of
our Nation just like Bush & Cheney...they believe
(erronously) that they are above the law. NOT!

theroyprocess · 1 year ago

Bob,
Just lie (truthiness) smile and notice that the
show is based on sarcasm! Can't do anything if
your dead! Mother Nature is not fooled! Thank
Colbert for his apology! Can't pretend anymore!
Everyone eats, drinks and breathes man-made
radiation from nuclear power plants sine 1945
the start of the atomic age. Why do you think
there are world wide epidemics of breast cancer,
obesity, lung cancer, diabetes, birth defects etc?
We can pour gas on the fire but prevention is much
cheaper and far more convenient than illness!

Robert Evans · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert if he or McCain or Obama care about urban education, and what might be done to improve the dumb No Child Left Behind law, as Diane Ravitch asked: How to improve urban schools without simply punishing them for not meeting standards.

AB · 1 year ago

count to five before you answer a question. that way you can relax while you settle into whatever you want to say. you may find that you want to smile and say nothing.

Joel · 1 year ago

for John McCain's Rage he might ask...

How many liberal out of context video clips does it take to get 1,000,000 hits on YouTube in ten days?

Answer: Zero =:^)>

Susan · 1 year ago

I agree -- fantastic response is "I'm not going to answer your question; I'm going to speak directly to the American people." BUT be prepared -- he's going to anticipate that and have a snappy response. So be prepared with your own choice selection of ripostes -- "Sarah Palin says Americans need to know the candidates; I'm merely providing that public service." "McCain calls us all his friends; I'm just highlighting what kind of friend McCain's been to all of us." "Republicans have plenty of talking heads lying FOR them. Americans deserve to have somebody telling the truth ABOUT them."

Nancy Nangeroni · 1 year ago

PS - Having just now watched your prior interview (sorry about that), I'd say try mirroring the mock seriousness (or whatever tone struck) of your host - last time, your laughing seemed more nervous than mirthful. Worry less about having specific answers, more about chemistry. See him as a peer, one you respect greatly. He's done great work for the left, and you might thank him for, say, his Correspondent's dinner, etc.

Sandra Dean · 1 year ago

Robert,

(I corrected my typos in my previous post. Here it is again. Delete the previous one if possible.)

All of your films are EXCELLENT, but the most recent one about the escalation of McCain's politics of hate and ignorance is the most disturbing. Democrats are not the only ones who find this low and dangerous behavior utterly despicable. Please mention the recent Frank Schaefer (lifelong Republican) op ed article in the Baltimore Sun which holds the McCain campaign responsible for any violence which may erupt as a result of these tactics. While occasionally feigning concern about the vein-popping hate that spills over at his rallies, McCain continues to allow Sarah Palin to whip the crowds up to a frenzy while he stands aside. Is this the behavior we want to see in a Commander in Chief? If McCain were sincere about his recent "defense" of Obama, he would run a respectful and unified campaign and call off the surrogate Pit Bulls he prefers to hide behind. Please call attention to this hypocrisy.

Thanks and Good Luck.

Julia · 1 year ago

He is someone who is actually on your side and his questions are an opportunity for you to present your own side before a national audience. Try to get inside his head and see why he is asking what he is asking. It's a conservative stance he actually wants to have refuted. Do so. If you can do so with humor, even better. And compliment him on his questions and tell him how you have modestly asked for all of our input. That is, if he doesn't mention it first. And if he does, you will say what? Be prepared.

LJ · 1 year ago

Colbert is wicked (-ly funny). He might ask:

Mr. Greenwald, why do you make movies for terrorists?
If a terrorist went to see your movies, what kind of popcorn would he order?
Will your movies have annoying commercials for American soft drinks?
What's the favorite soft drink in the Arab world?

ASK COLBERT:
Mr. Colbert, I have a role for you in my next movie. Is there a favorite terrorist you've always wanted to play?
--OR--
Mr. Colbert, I've been thinking of doing a movie about satiric talk-show hosts in the Middle East. Would you be willing to audition?
Who would you like your first guest to be?

cheslie · 1 year ago

Insist that your name be pronounced "Ro-bare". And don't forget to mention that Sarah Palin hates America enough to support secessionists.

Sarah Brady · 1 year ago

Ask him when he's going to have Bill O'Reilly on for a lovefest. Or when he's going to go on O'Reilly Factor.

Larry of Corrales · 1 year ago

He probably puts a straight jacket on his guests and limits what they can say. If you are allowed ask him why he thinks he would be a better President that either Obama or McCain and ask him if you can post his answer on YouTube. Ask him if he knew that Palin offers a bounty for wolves killed if the hunter can produce a front paw. Ask him what he thinks of ocean drilling for oil knowing that it pollutes the water and kills ocean wildlife.

Richard Greenwood · 1 year ago

Since Colbert is obviously in the top 1 percent of income receivers in McPailand, Just how much of the Pentagon budget and so-called "national defense" does he think he should pay for ? Or does he believe the poor and middle class should bear the burden and cost of keeping Conservatives safe? Class warfare ? You bet. From the top, down.

McCain a war hero ? Maybe. Audie Murphy was a hero. And thousands of other POWs in the history of American wars. What makes McCain so special ?

Angella · 1 year ago

Sorry. His mojo is better than yours. Just roll with it!!

tyler durden · 1 year ago

Tell Colbert that your secret - you're actually a huge fan of McCain. He's just what the country needs. You just want everyone to know how great he really is, IN DETAIL. Republicans already know this, but how do you reach people who aren't already McCain fans? By putting his videos on the Real McCain and dressing them up with "liberal" talk. It's getting people to watch the videos themselves that count, and you'll say anything to get them to do that. Because Johnny's magic and charisma comes through the videos - you can't stop it - and it's so powerful it charms the pants off even the most die-hard liberal. Don't you agree? Like this one [show meanest McCain clip you've got]
Besides, the country owes every POW a chance to become President. It's the least we can do. Some of them admit to having personal issues that make them think they shouldn't be near the red button, and if that's their choice, fine. But Johnny has no such qualms, so there it is. It's LOGIC: All POWs deserve to be President. Johnny is a POW. Johnny should be president! QUOD ERAT DEMONSTRANDUM.

Go with this. The key to mastering Colbert is not to let him take the lead, but use whatever he says as a springboard to go into your own shtick. If you can make a smooth segue, great. But don't let him run your appearance. Don't worry about what he's going to ask you. Just use it to segue into your own bits.

Supporter of That One · 1 year ago

I saw your appearance on The Colbert Report and hope you are not seriously concerned. Colbert's "character" has always been the staunch and stubborn supporter of conservative values while subtly revealing the irrationality and inconsistency of American "exceptionalism"... your nonverbal reaction was genuine and honest... and not lost on the viewers (who are, by the way, a largely moderate to liberal demographic). Don't try to "win" - enjoy the impromptu moment and be yourself. You are both on the same team... exploring ways to improve our nation while exposing the threats. I'll be watching!

Jahnna Beecham · 1 year ago

"Help Robert Greenwald Nail Stephen Colbert" may be your biggest problem. A heading like that for an e-mail throws down the gauntlet. I think he'll want to know how you're going to Nail him. You better bring a hammer in your pocket. The hammer of truth as Peter Paul and Mary sung about. The hammer of freedom.. Research a lot of pithy phrases about truth and use those as he asks about being nailed and then asks about the videos. You might add that you want McCain to speak for himself.

savannah · 1 year ago

viewed your 2006 Colbert interview: painful. You can't begin to compete with Colbert's wit, so stop trying. Be yourself, only lighten up.

Dorotha Russell · 1 year ago

I'd ask him in all seriousness "What project of yours would you like me to make my next video about?"

john mattingly · 1 year ago

IS STEVEN COLBERT REAL OR JUST SCRIPTED?

David A · 1 year ago

Good news; you are on the same side - Let Stephen call the shots - he's a master of his game.

What is the most important/urgent point you want to get across?

You don't have to answer his questions - just laugh and deliver your message. Stay on (your own) point.

Study how Naomi Kline and Naomi Wolf handled their Colbert interviews.
:)

Lala T Da · 1 year ago

Wear a cowboy outfit.. Tell him your the True Maverick.

Robin Wolaner · 1 year ago

Watch the video of Oliver Stone, who took Colbert off guard and made me want to see his new movie (and I never go to his movies). You can nail it like he did.

Lisa Williamson · 1 year ago

I think you should just relax, be yourself and be playful. I watch Colbert every night, and for all his bluster, his words demonstrate him to be far more liberal than most people. Try to just laugh!

yahya merchant · 1 year ago

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L8__aXxXPVc&feat...

Watch Palins interview with Katie Couric and then ask Colbert if McCain lost his marbles picking his running mate! If McCain wins I will pray evey night for his health and long life!!!

Media Concepts · 1 year ago

Hmm, not sure you're getting the concept. You do know that Colbert is being satirical, right? He's not really Bill O'Reilly, he acts like a fake Bill O'Reilly precisely to point out how hilariously stupid the right wing is, right? You really need our help answering Colbert's questions?

Dennis of WA · 1 year ago

Sara’s Appeal to the Halloween Electorate:
"I'd like to know what Sara Palin is going to do about the problems we're having with Witches. Halloween is approaching and Sara has all this experience with her pastor who drove a witch out of a town in African before coming and laying hands on her. I really think the Republicans can get the upper hand on the Halloween electorate. This could be the swing vote they need!

William Shepard · 1 year ago

First, you were great last time.
Second, don't wear that damn, oversized black watch -- it makes you look nerdy.
Third, give shorter explanations, no matter how complicated the subject.

Tom Pell · 1 year ago

Please ask Colbert about why the Republicans have made such a big deal about John Edwards affair and yet no mention is made of John McCain abandoning a disabled wife for a drug abusing rich, younger, meal ticket, new wife, that provided the finances for his political career. Why has Cindy McCain's abuse of narcotics, prescription fraud and theft of narcotics not been made an issue? Cindy has said she has always been proud to be an American, I bet she was especially proud when John used his experience and influence to keep her from being charged with any of the felony narcotic laws she broke!!!

Fidencio Campos · 1 year ago

Hi Robert,

Love everything you do for America! Stephen Colbert always shows pictures of his black friend, Jewish friend, etc. Find a picture of Colbert with his terrorist friend! Just a thought!

Thanks and Best Regards

Jaime Scholnick · 1 year ago

Please ask him:
why aren't Sarah Palin's ties to the American Ind Party highlighted more? She's such a gung ho, anti-terrorist proponent yet she and her husband both "pall around" with Anti-American,secessionist, terrorists (see Max Blumenthal: maxblumenthal.com Oct 10)
This needs to be highlighted more and is so much scarier than anything the Repubs claim against Obama.

Jennifer Phillips · 1 year ago

Robert - take your sense of humor, you have a great one and we didn't see it the last time you were on Colbert. You took that crazy man way too seriously. Just have a good time on camera and you'll do great. We'll be pulling for you from our home in Toronto,
Jennifer

Richard Curtis · 1 year ago

Robert, just be and let Stephen ask whatever; let your message come through in your love and passion for your work.

Angella · 1 year ago

Just remember.. as Super Villains go, their powers truly aren't all that spectacular. Sarah "Alaskan Thunder Bush" Palin's superpower, of course, lies within her frameless glasses. When she winks, a cleverly coded subliminal signal is transmitted from the lenses that can temporarily disable the thought processes of certain vulnerable citizens. The strongest defense against her powers is to have an education higher than the 3rd grade. Fortunately most Americans do, so unless there's massive voting fraud (that could never happen in America, right??) she'll be soundly defeated in November.

Melanoma Man is different kind of Villain with several unique abilities, the strongest of which is invisibility. This makes him uniquely suited to work with Mrs. ATB. It takes years to fully develop this power and his mojo is finally strong enough that parts of him are quite translucent, allowing him to blend in the scenery as his more flashy sidekick soundly winks the lowest common denominator into submission. He also has mad skillz in the rabble rousing arts, able to whip the feeble-minded minions of Palin into a slogan-chanting frenzy with one raspy "My friends..." croaked out from between his dessicated lips.

Together, these two masterminds are quite formidable, but take heart, citizens of Gotham and the United States of America!! These foul fiends can be defeated Tuesday November 4, 2008!!
Arm yourself with knowledge, clothe yourself in righteous indignation at being thought so gullible, and show this dastardly duo once and for all that we Americans are smarter than our shoe sizes!!

Les Simon · 1 year ago

When Stephen Colbert asks you a "loaded" question, ask him how he managed to get his own show.

tyler durden · 1 year ago

PS What's your goal in going on the show? One thing: getting more people to watch The Real McCain videos. The most effective way to do that is to praise McCain effusively. That will fit exactly with Colbert's whole premise, which is that everything he says means exactly its opposite. Make HIM try prove that you're not a McCain supporter. Make him show the videos. Keep saying, THE VIDEOS ARE THE TEST. THEY SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES. What you don't understand is why Johnny is so shy about sharing his real self with the world. Maybe it has something to do with his POW experience. You're just helping him along.

Gg Re · 1 year ago

haiku for Colbert ~ COLBERT STOLE MY ACT! / IF HE HAD ME ON HIS SHOW / I WOULD TAKE HIM DOWN! ~ by Mr./Ms. Re

Juls · 1 year ago

I think he will ask you something like, Why are you still picking on a war hero? He might say something about Palin bringing energy to the campaign and how they have us "right where they want us"

And you can say all your work has gotten them there, so in reality, you have helped them get there!!! ;-)

I look forward to seeing you, and Love the Colbert Report!

Juls

Jeannie Jackson · 1 year ago

Hi - I think you could reply the hate question of who hates America most, you or Michael Moore? You could have replied, "Me and Michael Moore are the bset things to happen to this country, and if it were not our love for the same, things might be even worse than they are." YOu might compliment Colbert on his cute glasses, or talk about the fact what this nation needs most right now is a safety net--so each city could help with food and shelter any way they can--or bring up my assumption that there should be a $44 billion reward system to match our current jail system--or tell him it's time to use computers to find out what America wants, instead of "papa government" still dictating what we should want. Good luck!!

Alice Davis · 1 year ago

Colbert's #1 goal is humor. Present anything with humor. I'd ask your own question in a humorous manner. Set Stephen up for an easy come back too to make him look good.

With limited response time, I'd come up with a one line zinger to fit in somewhere, anywhere, that gets across a valid point in a humourous way.

I would expect a question totally unrelated to anything mentioned current or on the blog as Colbert will not be predictable.

Would Colbert support the reinstatement of the Draft to "grow the military" as McCain/Palin have suggested is needed?

Connie Kaplan · 1 year ago

Are you kidding? You don't WANT to nail Colbert. He's your best friend. He points out more cleverly than anyone how idiotic John McCain is. Steven Colbert is doing EXACTLY what you're doing, except with his tongue firmly planted in his cheek. Your appearance will bring thousands of viewers to Brave New Films.

Laugh with him, even at yourself. End the interview with Pssst do something! (I love the wear a cowboy outfit idea.)

lance · 1 year ago

I'm sure someone has already mentioned this, but use the Sarah Palin debate comment if you feel cornered,(not answering the questions the way expected,maybe a shorter,funnier version).Also,if you could fit it in, some reference to his boyfriend on the show Strangers with Candy would be cool(the boyfriend's name was "Mr Jellyneck".He might even get a laugh out of it! And of course tell him that Stewart & Colbert is your second favorite hour of television... right after the infomercial for... (insert funny info here).That is all I have.

barry Nolan · 1 year ago

Don't go in with the goal of "nailing" Colbert. Remember - the person he is really making fun of is O'Reilly. That is the core of his schtick. You will do much better if your goal is to help him make fun of McCain and O'Reilly. Think satire - not serious. Oliver Stone did quite well the other night by realizing this.

carol · 1 year ago

The Colbert Report is one of the funniest things on TV. This is satire, dude. Relax and have fun!

Don't "nail" him. Just laugh with him.

Robert Showalter · 1 year ago

Rather than worry about "what" he will ask, I'd suggest that he might possibly be psychologically dyslexic, since he doesn't seem to see, hear or comprehend what he's observing with any degree of accuracy.

Mike Flood · 1 year ago

Well Bobby,
Respond to all of his questions with this:
"Steve, with all due respect, are you sure you're not confusing me with Brav-A-NewFilms?"
"When you Googled me for your show, you typed in Greenwald right, not Greenworld, or Greenday, or, I don't know, Greenbert?"
Then, laugh at all his jokes. He's a god.

Michael Caudy · 1 year ago

Base your preparation on what happens in tonights debate.

Colbert will likely play off the debate, since that will be very topical, and many people will have seen it.

Bill Ayers will likely be discussed in tonight's debate, so that would be a good topic to prepare for. Colbert may ask you abouot Ayers, even if Ayers is not discussed in tonight's debate.

Rob · 1 year ago

As others have suggested for your Colbert appearance, any question you don't want to answer just pull a Palin and say "I'm going to ignore that question Stephen, just like your hero Sarah Palin does, and instead talk about _____."

Other topics:
1) Who is the Real McCain (then list all of his recent flip flops to satisfy his nutjob right wing base).
2) Palin's ties to "domestic terrorist" organization Alaska Independence Party (and her comment early this year that they are doing "God's work.")
3) Your favorite McCain senior moments ("my fellow prisoners", repeatedly mixing up Sunni and Shiite, etc.).
4) Question to pose to Colbert: "Who has done more to destrot this country -- you (Colbert) or Papa Bear O'Reilly?"

Most importantly, have fun!

sidne byars · 1 year ago

how many people will leave the usa to live in other countries if McCain gets elected? or something like it in your words
Especially the sister countries Mexico and Canada
Mexico is glad to have it's Mexicans back educated and ready to work We need them
I am a \\23 year resident of Mexico living and working here
Great alternative to living in the states I would think Canada would be appealing too given the crime and who knows what will go on with all the loss of Jobs if all you hear in the news is true
living outside of the US looking in gives one an edge on perpectives

amala · 1 year ago

I agree he's going to ask you about your plea for help and also guilty by association type questions. He's totally going to make fun of you being nervous about being on his show and ask, "Who is the real Robert Greenwald?" He may try to find a connection between you and Nancy Reagan or expose the next video you're doing which might be about the arranged marriage of Bristol and what's his name, the father of her kid.

Pat Spencer · 1 year ago

Easy: He's going to ask you why Obama hasn't stepped up to stop all the racial hatred and violence type speech aimed at McCain by the left wing nut libs.

Rich Riggs · 1 year ago

I'm sure you should be prepared to answer some question about Bill Ayers with the idea about what he is now, pointing out the the present president was once a drunk and maybe an alcoholic, and that since Bill has changed his way of dealing with problems and has received various awards and recognition for his present approach to these problems he is well worth knowing and working with. You can point out that McCain has already admitted that he has no knowledge about economics and that this is the most important problem facing the country and while McCain wants to hand out even more tax cuts how will he ever pay for them. I am concerned that no one will want to buy American debt based on what happened when they bought the last collection of stuff like freddie and fanny which turned out to be worthless. So if we don't tax ourselves how will we pay for the things that government has to like this fun war, social insecurity, etc. You can say something about how people experience and education mold how they handle problems, a surgeon wants to use surgery to fix you, an internist wants to give you a pill, a mechanical engineer wants to use better materials or designs, an electrical engineer may want to use sensors or a better software and a militarist wants to use war! or the threeat of war. America has seen both in Vietnam and in Iraq that doesn't work and worse yet its very, very expensive. I hope some of this is helpful.

Rosalie · 1 year ago

Haven't you figured out that everything Colbert does is satirical? His questions are intended to drag out the most radical views of his conservative guests.

Pat · 1 year ago

I agree with "Media Concepts", please do remember that this is a politcal satire show. So, would it be appropriate to proceed with a "nail him" attitude?

The Republican campaign strategy is full of great satire with it's 'smear & fear' tactics that date back to the Nixon campaigns. They are old and out of ideas. Please do not stoop to their level.

Fresh! from SF · 1 year ago

Hi Robert,

Again thanks for the great work. You did a great job the last time. Nailing down another appearance was Excellent!

Short version:
Take breath after as many questions as you can. I notice you lean-in, take a breath while you lean in and no one will consider you are contemplating, they'll just see you leaning in for your response which is a positive.

Long version:
Slow down. Don't try to keep his pace. It's like he's a New Yorker and you're a mid-westerner - you want to think a second before you speak. so you can't go too slow, as I've seen some guests do, but you can take a breath. Just take a breath.

Take breath after as many questions as you can. I notice you lean-in, take a breath while you lean in and no one will consider you are contemplating, they'll just see you leaning in for your response which is a positive.

I don't have cable but I'll catch it soon after the show.

Break a leg,

Fresh!

tom everhart · 1 year ago

Ask him if its true that billo could possibly be his father or that Sean Hannity is his long lost brother. Make him come clean.

Frank Farrell · 1 year ago

Colbert might ask you what's wrong with having a melanoma. He might cite Reagan's Alzheimer's and other presidential maladies as being no big deal. He might say that Sarah Palin is ready to step in and she doesn't have melanoma. I would expect something wacky and quasi-pro-republican. If you can come back with a quick humorous response and get on to the important message I think you'll be a great success. Good luck and keep the pedal to the metal...victory is nigh but not assured!

Jesse Kumin · 1 year ago

If he asks a negative question like who hates America more, you or Michael Moore, just say George Bush and Dick Cheney. Look what Bush and Cheney have done to destroy our financial systems, our reputation in the world, the mess in Iraq, their rape of our natural resources, their failure to deal with global warming. It's nearly impossible to prepare for every question and go toe to toe with Colbert and his staff of writers waiting to ambush you. The politicians answer the questions they want to answer to stay on message, which you will need to do also.

Matthew · 1 year ago

I hope you realize that the Colbert Report is Satire and that he is on our side.

Mark · 1 year ago

Remember the Colbert Report is a COMEDY SHOW on the COMEDY CHANNEL. He is doing a farcical take off on other shows like Hannity and O'Reilly but with his own format.

LAUGH WITH HIM! Don't try to be funnier than he is and don't try better his remarks. Just get back to your talking points...be firm...have fun.

Wendy · 1 year ago

Just let him nail you. He's brilliant. We know it's all fake news, we're not dumb. Shows like Colberts are the only way most of us can stomach what's happening to our country. We NEED humor and we need to keep up on current events. Colbert helps us stomach the crap. So don't take it so personally, nobody really cares---only your ego cares really.

nisi rooney · 1 year ago

Your videos are just the best news this political season.....but unfortunately, you are preaching to the choir more than likely. You'll have a blast with Colbert so relax & enjoy the ride. I just wish that Obama/Biden would take some direction from you & learn a few zinger sound bites. There's certainly plenty of material out there to throw some good ole softballs their way. McCain's all about "Country First" & leadership style.....so I'd suggest that you focus on McCain's erratic & nonsensical approach to his campaign.....& highlight who he is really putting first.....certainly forces me to scratch my head in perplexia.

Pat Spencer · 1 year ago

On second thought, he might ask you who said: "Those who have had a chance for four years and could not produce peace should not be given another chance."
It was, of course, Richard M. Nixon, on October 9, 1968.

Tom Pollak · 1 year ago

Who would you trust more at your side if you were in a street fight or in a foxhole firefight?

Erich E. Stafford · 1 year ago

When John McCain quits politics and goes home, which home will he go to (9) and which car will he drive (13)?

Brian Bennett · 1 year ago

I am a part of the Colbert Nation and I love him. Your videos are informative and good, also.

Start with a compliment! I love your show/book/ice cream (Americone Dream). Don't say they are good - state something of his is the greatest.

He will ask you why you hate America - Be Prepared! I would draw analogy to loving my body, but scrutinizing it for problems. (If you have examples of Democrats you've gone after, illustrate here.)

Colbert will likely state that last time you were on talking about Tom Delay - he's still innocent and Colbert will allow you to admit you were wrong (since Delay isn't in jail yet). I'd say "I was wrong assuming his trial would be completed by now." - If your statement doesn't begin with those words he'll cut you off.

He may ask, "George Bush: Great President or The Greatest President". I'd say The Greatest spending President ever - and illustrate with something quick like this: www.lafn.org

Unfortunately, neither McCain and Palin care at all for bears (although McCain voted for the bear DNA tests he mocks.)

As far as your recent videos, Colbert will label McCain's Rage as "passion" - so illustrate why McCain's is rage, not passion. Also on McCain flip-flopping, use quick examples to illustrate how McCain said ____ , then ____ the next day, etc.

Finally, Colbert is quicker on his feet than anyone. Nothing is too bold to a statement to stand behind and he will catch you off guard (that's his job). He's going to have fun and so should you. If he "nails you", smile, admit, laugh - this lessons his "attack" and gives you time to pose a counter-question or statement. Have fun, and I'll be watching.

Stanley Laham · 1 year ago

Capitalize with humor on McCain-Palin supporters holding up monkey identified as little Hussein and questioning what species and religion Obama belongs to. You are all the more perplexed since you thought the species McCain and Palin belonged too were long extinct: Tyrannosaurus Rex (the rage factor) and Imbecilicus Rex (the bimbo factor).

Barbara Dickman · 1 year ago

Snce the debate is tonight and his show is shot tomorrow afternoon, I think he will challenge you on the debate. Go along with him. His goals are the same as yours, GET OBAMA ELECTED.

Erika · 1 year ago

Haha...oh gosh, you're asking us how to topple the ultimate King of Comedy! Wow.

Well, as far as what he's going to ask you...as a faithful watcher of everything Colbert (and a faithful wearer of my Wrist Strong bracelet...which, do you have yours???? WEAR IT IF SO!!! If not, you can have mine and I'm in Redondo Beach...just email me and we'll swing it by your office! Seriously!), my gut says he's going to stay focused on the videos pertaining to McCain and Palin's over-the-top rabble rousing...so the most recent McCain video...(yet also probably the "Who is John McCain" video doing some sort of joke about Alzheimers Disease). What will he ask you regarding the most recent video, though...let me think here...things like this..."so from what I'm gathering you think it's NOT OK to call someone a 'single-cell-living-room-made-commie-socialist-fagot-terrorist', and that speaking a person's middle name is second only to speaking the name of Satan and conjuring him for evil deeds?" What else will he say...hmmm..."Have you found out yet, and maybe you brought some with you since I'm sure you've been to most of the Palin rallies, where they're passing out those little stuffed monkeys...cuz they're just so gosh-darn cute?!?" What else..."What I'M wondering is why YOU, Robert Greenwald, DON'T support middle-class-everyday-joe-shmoe-six-pack-toting-racial-smear-flinging-monkey-carrying-terrorist-spotting-DECENT-Americans???? You're also against our troops, aren't you?!?" I think it's going to be along these lines. lol What should you ask of him (if you get the chance)..."If you'd been nominated to run for President..."...oh geez...SOMEthing along the lines of "burning Wrist Strong bracelets instead of the American Flag and how that would affect the environment, and so how essentially he is, with his lack of nomination, safe-guarding The Planet Earth and all it's inhabitants."

Have fun and we'll all be cheering you on. NO one leaves Colbert without getting his butt kicked, and it's his way of expressing his appreciation and love...so go get your butt kicked like the best of 'em!!! Who knows, though, you MIGHT just get him to laugh...I've seen it happen once, and you're just as capable!

Yours also,
Erika in Redondo Beach :)
(Seriously, contact me for a Wrist Strong bracelet if needed! Of course for free! Yeah...I have extras...???)

Shannon · 1 year ago

Just hang a sign around your neck with your web site on it. Refuse to say a word.

Nicole Vann · 1 year ago

I would ask Colbert why exercising the very rights that our boys in Iraq are supposedly fighting for is unpatriotic while unquestioning faith in a government run amuck is considered patriotism? Why is bringing corruption and hypocrisy to task un-American while racism and and fascism as American as apple pie? It is our right to question government, we have a right to privacy, torture is illegal on and on but calling these civil rights violations to attention is "hating America"?

DENNIS J. IMONDI · 1 year ago

Here are my two cents. When he greets you; ask him about the Manchurian Candidate.
John McCain; after-all he was allegedly a POW for years in a communist country. looking at McCain's actions; one can assume he's been brainwashed.
Or has had his brain "dry cleaned." Good luck on the show, kick Colbert's butt!

Donn Edwards · 1 year ago

I can't believe this Colbert guy. Is he for real?

I guess he's going to ask you how you manage to make any movies when you spend all your time hanging around with terrorists and blacks, judging by his previous questions.

kins207 · 1 year ago

Colbert's whole premise is that he tries to embarass everyone who comes on his show. I suggest pulling a "Palin" and spewing out what you want to say regardles of whether it answers any of his questions. He also seems to like it when people don't take themselves too seriously and go along with his lead. However, this can backfire on you quite easily if he decides to change his tactics in midstream.

I don't know how he ever got his own show. Jon Stewart is much funnier.

jean Ann Marwick · 1 year ago

Robert, don't let the funny guy see you squirm. He is intelligent, but so are you. You are his equal. Ask him if he felt as if Sarah Palin was winking at him when she went on her debate debacle. She refused to ask questions- so ask him what he would have done in that situation had he been the facilitator. Nobody has really made a big issue of that, nor of the fact that Palin is still talking about domestic terrorists....come on, that guy was from the 60s when there were some very strange people around who did not support the war. Making out that Obama is his "pal" is a stretch.... Go for it, we will all be pulling for you.

Nina Klooster · 1 year ago

There is nothing wrong with saying, "I love America." Surely you must, considering how much effort you put into correcting it's flaws. How on earth did we ever let the right own "loving America"? But of course, that is what Colbert is satirizing. What ever he asks you, answer from your heart.

TheTooleMan · 1 year ago

Oliver Stone handled Colbert pretty well, I thought. He basically agreed with everything Colbert said, with a wink and a nod. Or you could tell Colbert you made a mistake, and the title of your video should have been "John McCain's AGE is a national security concern."

Kate · 1 year ago

Colbert is all about sarcasm so you have to know that and realize that he has the same goal as you but uses the opposite view to prove his point...try to play into that...he loves it when guests use his own methods...

Paula Franceschi · 1 year ago

Stephen will ask:
"Why do you hate Stephen Colbert so much?" (since you want to 'nail' him...."

Boyd Williamson · 1 year ago

Yes, Colbert's satire is brilliant, and of course, he's on our side. Your best shot is to understand that politics is the secondary point here, #1 is humor. All you can do is be a good sport and smile. But you already know all that.

If you do manage to get a comment in edgewise, you could maybe make reference to the plummeting value of Cheney's pacemaker battery stock portfolio; ask about the rumor Palin's being investigated for cheerleading without a costume; if McCain is running TV ads now with "I no longer approve this message;" are the Republicans buying more ads now and "is the surge working?;" if McCain doesn't win and finds himself out of a job, will they be able to pay the mortgage on their 7 homes?; or maybe how, if the Republicans had really wanted a presidential candidate with experience, they should have run Dick Cheney.

Have fun! We'll be watching!

Forrest Hayes · 1 year ago

This may be off the track a bit, but I think it is the root of the problem we face today. I'd like to know when we're going to kick the lobbyists out of congress and make "their" reprsentitives "ours" again. When are we going to clean up politics, put the congressmen and senitors back on the social security system, so they have a vested interest in it, make it illigal to take money from corporations, and set limits on campain expenditures, so people and corporations can't simply buy their way to the white house?

Susan Araiza-Boys · 1 year ago

My best advice to you is not to prepare what you will say to Colbert, but rather enjoy his wit and have fun with him...such as when he asked you the question, "who hates America more, you or Michael Moore?" a good retort could have been...The real question Mr. Colbert is, who loves Bill O'Reilley (mis spelled by accident?) more, you or Bill O'Rielly?...He will ask you more questions, perhaps something along the lines of...Why would you make reference to Palin and Pit Bulls, do you have something against Pit Bulls????
Study up on Colbert and remember he puts his pants on just like you do one leg at a time. Or perhaps, he jumps into his pants both legs at once...P.S. I think he has a crush on Bill O'Rielly, really Colbert does, haven't you noticed how his eyes have that far-away look when he mentions Bill's name???

Erica · 1 year ago

You might want to take the Oliver Stone approach which really seemed to take Stephen off guard, if only for a second. Namely, go along with him. Example: "Who hates America more, you or Michael Moore"? Answer: "Oh definitely Michael Moore. I don't hate America at all. I love America and that's why blah blah blah you favorite short talking point here". Suck up at every turn, how watching his show has "made me see the light and how you now know you MUST do everything for Obama to restore America blah blah blah your next favorite talking point here". Don't talk over him; don't interrupt. Just agree and then pivot. Like Sarah Palin. The 4 minutes will be over before you know it.

Ardi · 1 year ago

The one portion of the Colbert Show that I can't stand in when he brings brilliant people on the show and let's them spit out 3.5 sentences. Every question he asks is really just a set up so he can interrupt your response with a zinger. I know it's satire but I'd love it if he would let these interesting people get out their thoughts or at least finish a sentence. My advice have 3 or 4 word sentences prepared. That way you can finish your sentence and beat him to the punch.

Steve West · 1 year ago

I'm surprised, but I think you don't get it. Colbert is 100% on your side and he's just looking to make the other side look as foolish as it is. Don't go in as an enemy. Relax and enjoy his irony and go with the flow. His job is to make you look good not bad. The only way you'll look bad is if you are argumentative because everyone watching knows he's trying to support you not undermine you.

Graham · 1 year ago

You gotta realize that you're most likely going to have a difficult time getting a word in edge-wise with Colbert; he's the master of humorous interruptions and drastic conversation changes.

I'm not sure if it's a generational thing, but a lot of interviewees closer to my parent's generation seem to have a more difficult time grasping the Colbert persona. I think you'd be best served by just watching a few interview clips on The Colbert Report website to get a better feel for how his ship is run.

Best of luck from California.

Bonnie Owen · 1 year ago

Ask him why nobody is talking about the fact that McCain pals around with domestic terriorist
G. Gordon Liddy?

Zol Waterhouse · 1 year ago

I agree with the posts I've seen already.

Stephen Colbert is not a Conservative. He's a liberal sarcastic response to guys like Bill O'Reilly and Sean Hannity. He will ask you off-the-wall questions, but they're all designed to make fun of the guys I mentioned.

Just understand that he won't shut you up, he'll let you bring up all progressive talking points that you'd like, but you may have to play along and laugh with him.

Good luck, and have a great show!

Adeline Medalia · 1 year ago

Just give him lots of opportunity to be funny, which, of course is what he's paid to do. So ask HIM the first question and let him have the floor.
Keep the spotlight on him and just stick, if necessary to your best talking points. And for goodness sake, have fun. He's one of the best satirists around.

Harvey Weiss · 1 year ago

Can we trust a man who is a know compulsive gambler with the red button at his fingertips?
The only change McCain can bring about are his own Depends.

Helen Santek · 1 year ago

Colbert may want to ask if McCain if he is so mean because he really hated Daddy because good old Dad made Admiral while he, having graduated second to the last lowest grading in his university class, crashed a very costly fighter plane over VietNam and thus became primo supremo hero of the VietNam conflict. At least McCain came home with all limbs intact unlike some of the forgotten souls who were emotionally and physically broken.

Bluenoodle · 1 year ago

Here's a concept that hasn't been aired and provides an opportunity to throw their stuff right back at them:

You might remember that Barak Obama is not just "black," he is bi-racial. Barak saw his father ONCE and the man had no impact whatsoever on his formation. Indeed, he was raised by his white mother—a Ph.D.—, his white Midwestern grandparents, and an Indonesian stepfather.

How would it be if the Democrats focused on Sarah Palin's baby Trig and started whipping up crowds with this line of thinking: the baby is a moron, so the mother must be "not quite right" also. Well, now . . . . think about it.

This false syllogism is, in effect, what the Republicans airing. Imagine the GOP outrage should “that one” or his running mate veer from the high road and use such a gutter tactic.

Annie Darek · 1 year ago

REPRISE: I think it's very possible he could say "last time i ask you this... you or michael moore?" So, for starters, be prepared to answer better. Perhaps a "First, I don't hate America at all. And, second, I can't speak FOR Michael Moore. (smiles) Next question, Stephen?"

Gail Cerridwen · 1 year ago

I agree with those here who say to go with a fun attitude, to play. In fact, play along with his ironies. I so rarely see folk doing that.

When he blasts you for saying nasty things about McCain, look shocked and say, "I thought you'd get it Stephen. It's hard to reach people today, so we've gotta use humor and irony. These videos are all IRONIC! Of course it's all irony!" ;)

karen · 1 year ago

Ask him....what about all this talk of Sarah Palin being a Rapturist..how come no one's talking about THAT...

surge, surge? it's not working..IT'S ETHNIC CLEANSING that is working..just ask Robert Fisk a world renown, award winning journalist who lives part time in IRAQ!


I'd like to know McCain's thoughts on THESE issues~!

thanks!

Droogs · 1 year ago

I'd stick to a mindset, not a list of questions. If you want to corner Colbert without blowing his cover and ruining the experience of watching his show, then stick to relating the qualities of Republican campaign tactics to the terrorists they pledge to kill.

Aren't the people who commit terrorist offenses doing so by following a group or a leader? By idly allowing his supporters to continue to mount hate for the opposing party, McCain sends a neutral message that effectively encourages this process. In your video, Obama was referred to as a one man terrorist cell, something that doesn't make much sense. A one man terrorist cell is in it only for the sake of causing the world pain and suffering, nothing more. Terrorists claim to have some kind of reasoning or justification for the acts they commit, where as a lone wolf terrorist goes by their own rules.

Terrorists use fear to manipulate people. Obama, as well as his supporters, use mostly words, ideas and facts to do so. The McCain campaign has been focused on appealing only to a voter's fear of another candidate winning. This only shows McCain's inability to lead, as he continues to lower the standards of the election in hopes of making himself only appear better fit for office.

jetta · 1 year ago

QUESTION FOR THURSDAY NIGHT BROADCAST.

What about the connection to the extremists' group that Palins' husband is a member of and Sarah has had strong contacts with? Do we want someone in a high office like VP who ascribes to that kind of anti-american phylosophies?

Meryl Tihanyi · 1 year ago

Answering a question with a question is a good way to take the focus off of you! If I were asked the question, who hates America more - you or Michael Moore?" I would answer, neither of us! It is our love that we bring light to these dark times and people. Your films are so to the point, it's hard to choose which is best. My personal favorite is the one where you clearly illustrate McCain's rage problem, but to the mass of people, I wonder if the one entitled, "End the Political Hate" would be more in the face. The rage film is ominous and actually scary, so much so that people may disengage emotionally rather than respond with outrage.

KRLIG · 1 year ago

Nail Colbert? Oh, yeah that's going to happen. Oliver Stone had the best approach - play right along and you'll get lots of publicity for your McCain videos. Have fun, enjoy the ride: Colbert's a hoot!

Stanley laham · 1 year ago

Capitalize on McCain-Palin supporters holding up monkey identified as little Hussein and questioning what species and religion Obama belongs to. You are all the more perplexed since you thought the species McCain and Palin belonged too were long extinct: Tyrannosaurus Rex (the rage factor) and Imbecilicus Rex (the bimbo factor).

Liberal Hockey Mom · 1 year ago

relax and have fun. he wants to expose hypocrisy. if you are stuffy and uptight, he may think you are a hypocrite. be relaxed and enjoy him-he is brilliant. this is a character. he is a reasonable, thinking person

ask him why mccain pals around with the palins-secessionists. ask him why they don't do a better job of calling off the rallying cry that obama is a terrorist.

Cynthia Papermaster · 1 year ago

YOU control the conversation. That's "Media Relations 101". Once or twice I have seen guests actually "own" their few minutes by answering in really succinct, strong words. Colbert looks for something he can riff on-- and he does it brilliantly I think. If you say something hard-hitting and spot on you will be able to get your message out-- regardless of what he picks out to joke about.
I can't stand the wasted opportunities Colbert provides either. It's excruciating, tho' I'm so grateful that we have those opportunities. But if you're calm, prepared and smart, and willing to laugh along, you can steer the interview well.

Gregory Shirman · 1 year ago

Politicians, who run for office should be requested to publish, besides financial statements, their IQ
(the bottom line should be IQ of W), and life expectancy for first term in office.

Mike Rice · 1 year ago

Ask him why American Carol failed so badly if Michael Moore is such a demon? Raise the issue of letting Tina Fey be herself again. Four years of 'letting Tina be Sarah' might shorten Tina's career. Finally, ask Colbert if he might persuade his colleague John Stewart to stop making faces during his act. Its too much like a real news show and people watching have trouble milking the experience for substance. If you have time, ask Colbert why he wears the same rumpled suit and soup-stained tie for every show. There's a limit to what audiences can stand from fake TV. Lastly, ask Colbert is he would consider reading a bedtime story to the audience now and then. His show does come on pretty late you know. Some of the audience is already watching in their jammies! Ask Colbert why he's having a low level munchkin like yourself on when Christopher Buckley is available to explain why he threw mud on his father, the great Patriarch William Buckley's legacy, then thumbed his nose at National Review Colleagues,
throwing copies of his absentee vote for Obama-Biden at them as he was tossed out the front door.
Ex-colleague Jonah Goldberg sent copies of the ballots to a national clearing house for voter supression where the ballots were likely to get
immediate attention from the McCain-Palin suppression team.

Mike Rice

richard · 1 year ago

With all the talk , or lack of real talk on energy, my question is ; if new domestic leases are given to oil companies for drilling, will that actually help the price of fuel domestically, or will those reserves go on the international market and just create more wealth for the oil companies?? Wouldn't there have to be some sort of nationalization on the resources to keep it in the US??, and thus help reduce the dependence on foreign supplies

Bob Schwartz · 1 year ago

If John McCain really thinks that BArak Obama is not ready to be president, what does he really think about Sarah Pallin, the woman whose skirt he hides behind?

christa hillhouse · 1 year ago

if he asked me why i hate america so much, i would say that i don't hate america, but sometimes i do hate loving america so much.

loving america includes taking on the responsibility of trying to cure it's ills.

loving america is like entering into a relationship with an alcoholic - a really beautiful, talented alcoholic - who has, in their life, displayed unlimited potential but has recently lost their way on a narcissistic path chock full of dishonesty, materialism and greed.

loving america means intervention! wake up from the denial!

elect barack! then we don't have to HATE LOVING AMERICA!

Ed Arnold · 1 year ago

If Colbert again asks you a question like "Who do you think hates America more, you or Michael Moore",
I think you should respond with a question to him that shows his question was ridiculous. A classic response of that type would be, "When did you stop beating your wife?"

Judy Gumbo Albert · 1 year ago

Robert: Don't take him so seriously. Colbert is a comic & a very political leftie. Out Yippie him. Channel Abbie. Lots of love to you -- Judy Gumbo

Ally Stacey · 1 year ago

Playing along and having a good time is truly the best (and really only) thing you can do on the Colbert report. He's mocking a certain other talk show host and his stupid take on things will only make you look better. So have fun!

Sarah McCown · 1 year ago

I think you did fine on your first appearance with Colbert. He does get outrageous but his audience knows what's going on, hence the applause for your statement. You'll never "nail him", he is just too sharp. Just laugh along and get your important information out to the audience.

Diana Holtzberg · 1 year ago

Hi Robert: Long time no speak. Congrats on all the recent great work! Jan says hello - he is at MIP now. I love the Colbert Report. Laugh if he catches you off guard. Make sure you have three or four important sentences you want to get across . Maybe how the mainstream media and the conservative media are not covering what you are bringing to light. Why aren't they... speaking more about McCain and Palin's hate mongering and inciting their supporters to violence? Why don't they speak more about the book Mary Matalin has published with all the lies about Mr Obama? Why don't they show the video of Sarah Palin's pastor praying over her when they keep showing Barak's former pastor? Why isn't there a law to insist that those running for President must reveal their medical records? Why has McCain made it so hard for the press to study his medical records? Why doesn't the press push this? Why are they giving such a pass to him and Palin? Why isn't it an issue that Palin's husband is a member of a group that wants to cede from the country and she went to a meeting this year and told them to keep up the good work? What about her trooper gate scandal and McCain's numerous ethical issues and bad judgements? etc etc You'll be great! I'll watch...

Steven Susman · 1 year ago

Question: Steven...who is more confused? You or John McCain?

Peter Wentworth · 1 year ago

You should wear a Kettner for Congress T-Shirt - it will catch him so off guard he won't know what to say and will probably crack up.

Linda Kettner is the progressive Democrat running against Henry Brown in Colbert's Home District 1 in South Carolina.

The current Ad Ms. Kettner is running chronicling the painfully true saga of how Henry Brown, started a fired that speread to the Francis Marion National Forest (Francis Marion is the character Mel Gibson is based on in the Patriot) how Congressman Brown refused to pay the fine, when given to him by a Forest Ranger because he was a US Senator - and how Congressman Brown then spent $100,000 of taxpayer money fighting the charge, and then, when he couldn't get out of it, passed legislation making it hard to fine people for spreading fires.

I'd be glad to send my Smokey the Bear says Dump Henry Brown Shirt design for you to wear - or you could just go to the Kettner for Congress Site and get one of hers.

Henry Brown is also for drilling for Oil off the SC Coast - even though there's no oil, that even if there were it would be a decade before it hit the market, and if we're not off oil by then his home town will be underwater.

DENNIS J. IMONDI · 1 year ago

Why not pull a Rudy Giuliani? Answer any & all questions with a noun/verb?
Mummar Gaddafi.
Keating Five.
Charles Keating.
USS Forrestal.
USS Oransky.
895 out of 899.
He will tire & then ask you what you are saying.
Try winking every time the camera is on you.

Lewis Keizer · 1 year ago

When Colbert asks who hates America more, you should respond with your own question: "Who loves America more--you or George Bush?" Be on your toes and in control.

Sean O'Connor · 1 year ago

The last thing you want to do is "nail" Colbert. He's on your side and his viewers are on his side. The "hostile" interview is an inside joke. Roll with it and laugh at his ingenuity and cleverness. Use the publicity to expose the work you've done and educate people where to find it (Netflix, etc.) Make sure to work it in so it can't be cut. The worst thing you could do is make this adversarial. You've got to come off as a likable guy, which you are. Be natural and don't take the interview seriously - because it's NOT serious. Colbert is doing you a favor by exposing you (in a good way) to his audience. Act that way. Be gracious. If you do nail Colbert, you'll probably come off as a dick to his fans. You'll win the battle and lose the war.

Son of Bill Brasky · 1 year ago

Robert,

When he asks you a question like that.. you respond with "Michael Moore" or maybe "Grizzly Bears"... I might have said "Sean Hannity"

Please tell me you get the joke.
Try to relax and have a good time. It's a COMEDY SHOW.

Good luck.. I'll be sure to tune in. Thanks for your work.

Joe O'Leary
sonofbillbrasky dot com

Mark Pavlich · 1 year ago

I do not have time to read the 798 previous comments so I will add mine.

Emphasize the most basic premise that everyone is going to be treated with respect – we may disagree intensely - but that predatory top dog / must suppress attitudes will not be tolerated. (It is ironic that the “far right religious” individuals, which are taught tolerance in the bible, are the ones with the least respectful)

We do not hate our country – just are angry at the predatory (anti-respectful) behavior and policies of some government officials and some business institutions.

Do not fall into the “do you still beat your wife” routine – just laugh and say “very funny”

Fresh! from SF · 1 year ago

Michael Moore - Tell him if Michael didn't love this country, he'd be making movies about politicians disguised as talk show hosts instead of showing us the truth.

Mark R · 1 year ago

Aaah... are you aware that Colbert is a comedian who believes in the same progressive ideals as we do?

pat speer · 1 year ago

I think he's gonna ask how you can look yourself in the mirror, knowing you're helping to get a man with terrorist ties elected. To which your response should be to ask him how he can look himself in the mirror, knowing that some people take his "righter than O'Reilly" schtick seriously.

If he then protests his innocence, you should ask him if it's possible that, just as Pinocchio's nose grew longer with each lie, his ears turn further and further askew as he lies.

Caroline · 1 year ago

I think he will ask you why you always pick on Old, Angry, White Men? After all, justifiably so, you've picked on Cheney, Bush, Rummy, O'Liely, Limbaugh too. Have fun, it will be a pleasure to watch two of my heroes together.

Harry GP Burt · 1 year ago

Hi Robert

He is on your side, so keep it light. If he asks the "stopped beating your wife" questions, throw them back at him.

You will have only moments, so responses must be snappy. Be ready with a fast response about Acorn voter Fraud. Patriotism and paying taxes, Negative campaigning, the rich paying their fair share, McCain's poor and erratic judgment. Take a leaf out of Palin's book and provide the input you want to provide, rather than trying to figure out a real response.

Bruce · 1 year ago

Possible questions Colbert may ask you:

1) Why do you hate a glorified war hero?
2) Aren't you un-American going after a P.O.W.?
3) Doesn't McCain have a right to rage?
4) Why should we believe a liberal commie Hollywood filmmaker?
5) Do you really think you're going to change the political discourse? Isn't it supposed to be ugly and hateful? That's politics.
6) How come you aren't making films about Obama's terrorist ties and the fact he's actually one of Osama bin Laden's secret sons?
7) I heard you're trying to nail me. Are you part of the politics of hate?

Questions you can ask Colbert:
1) Why didn't you warn America about the economic meltdown?
2) How come you never included Paulson as part of a "Threatdown"?
3) Aren't you an elitist?
4) Why do you hate "Change"?
5) Why are you waiting so long to endorse a candidate? Colbert Nation deserves an answer now.
6) Ask him if he's planning on voting for Sarah Palin because she lives by the truthiness doctrine. Does that make her attractive to Stephen?

Holly · 1 year ago

The best thing to do is keep your cool and laugh along. He's not mocking you; he's mocking crazy Republican pundits. The audience is on your side, and secretly, so is Colbert. Just enjoy yourself and spit out what you came to say.

Cathy Rittereiser · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert who he finds hotter Sarah Palin or Jane Fonda? Ask him if he thinks Palin could do the type of political turn around that Fonda did? If so maybe there is hope!

I love Colbert. Have fun with him and DON'T expect to nail him. He's too good. (emmy this year!)

rick johnson · 1 year ago

ask about mccains first marriage he left his wife and kids for a younger prettier richer woman,yes he abandoned his own children for anothe woman
or ask how many planes he crashed b 4 he was shot down or where did he graduate in his class 1st 21 st or second to last
correct answer 84th out of 85

P.E. Muetz · 1 year ago

He will ask you why you hate America, Answer: Not as much as Palin and the A.I.P.

Son Dance · 1 year ago

Sir, you don't want to 'nail' Stephen, you want to collaborate with him on a comedy show. You both want to entertain America. Just bring your wit, go on in a pleasant frame of mind, and don't dare to try to upstage Stephen. Get a laugh, but don't get LAUGHS, if you catch my drift. PS -- Stephen is not 'sarcastic;' he is sometimes facetious, sometimes ironic, and almost always funny. You couldn't go on a better show.

Joan M · 1 year ago

If he catches you offguard, just wink and say "Maverick!" Honestly, the GOP argument that Palin has more "executive" experience than Obama, who was a 2 term State Senator of Illinois first, is a crock. COOK County, IL has one of the 10 largest economies in the WORLD. Puh-leez. The Alaskan economy is smaller than balancing my checkbook.

Tom · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert: Why are you voting for Barack Obama?

jaleh · 1 year ago

The answer to the question "who hates America more?" should be "Palin's crowd"...

PLEASE watch this video, Al Jazeera interviewing Palin's crowd...they are racists and ignorant. If Republicans can defend these people and be elected, we are doomed...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zRqcfqiXCX0

Sarah Voelker · 1 year ago

Well, Steven is not as you called him a conservitive. He is a spoof of one. I think you are great for making all these films to inform the people who belive whatever they hear see or read from neo-cons. I think you should talk about how the Banksters @ the federal reserve have taken over all of the banks. (all of our money)
It is a shame no one person I talk to knows any of this. You never hear of it on the news, from an electied offical, or an investigative reporter. We are a nation of slaves. Now republicans want to take intitlements away from us. We know John McCain is crazy and spreading hate and fear. Just give us some real truth. Truth the news outlets will not give us. How about our incometax (not corporate) just dissapears. Not into the hands of "welfare queens"
or disabled people. Just..poof..gone. In 1913 we all lost our freedom. Our money is as worthless as monopoly money. We are all debters to the 1% of the world who owns and operates all. After the 2000 election we all know presidents are chosen for us. Our opinions matter not.

Paul Yeuell · 1 year ago

Robert,
I'm sure you've gotten this advice, but the best thing to do with Colbert, especially if he caught you off guard before, is to have a list of specific things in your mind/hand that you want to say and just be persistent. Take a page out of the Palin Debate Handbook and don't even bother to answer the questions! Good luck. You're doing great work. Thank you.

Karen · 1 year ago

humm....I think Colbert would ask if you're pulling for Cheney then follow it up with: If you were John McCain would you fake an injury to avoid another defeat at tonight's debate or perhaps 'Is McCain racist?' - to the first, HELL NO, the other two simply reply.... Yes

The REAL question you should watch out for is about Sarah Palin: "How smart do you think this woman is?" - answer, as smart as drunken doorknob.

Mchael · 1 year ago

GET YOUR HEAD OUT OF YOUR ASS! HE'S ON OUR SIDE YOU IDIOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dan Simons · 1 year ago

All you need to have is a sense of humor, judging from your email you are in over your head. oh shit, just stall with answers like "in what regard Stevie" and bat your eyes at the camera a lot.

Andrea · 1 year ago

...you do know he dislikes Republicans just as much as you do, right? It's a CHARACTER - he's poking fun at all the nonsense he sees. He doesn't actually think what he says on the show.

Be in good spirits, and it will be fine. If anything, just drive your points home - try not to let him interrupt you ;)

Mason Cobb · 1 year ago

Don't take yourself so damn seriously -- it's a comedy f'Chrissake, and a satire: go with the flow ....and have fun!!

Papa Bear · 1 year ago

No matter what the question is, answer, "I don't know, why don't you ask my best friend William Ayers?"

I think he'd get a kick out of that kind of self effacing response.

Rachel Resnikoff · 1 year ago

Take your lessons from Barbie Palin and ignore the question. Just turn it around and talk about what you want, e.g. "Speaking of Michael Moore, a filmmaker I respect and admire, I'm very proud of my recent films "The REAL McCain" and John McCain is Dr. Strangelove".

He will continue to interrupt you, that's his job. Maybe wink and nod a couple of times... ;-)

Helen Gray · 1 year ago

I don't watch Colbert enough to understand that the question who hates America more, you or Michael Moore is supposed to be funny. I believe you are doing what you are because you love America and want it back. So, I go along with the commenter who suggests you get hold of a Kettner for Congress t-shirt - it may disarm him.

Diana Holtzberg has a pretty good comment too. Put him on the spot on the rage-to-rage that goes on whenever Palin is talking. Good luck.

Ricardo Saporta · 1 year ago

Last time, You got caught off guard, cause your defenses were on.

see Oliver Stone's appearance on the show. Granted, Colbert gave him 'friendly'
questions, but note how Stone responded, always over the top of colbert himself.



Irony is your strongest resource.

H. Wood V'Near · 1 year ago

Ask him why the sudden blast of hot air or was that McCain's coat tails just flappin' in the breeze?

donald Jacobs · 1 year ago

Of course the show is sarcastic, so your appearance will make an positive impact on American politics. You will be attacked, but do not worry about that. Just talk with conviction, and you will be fine. Do not over prepare. I would not even think about what you will say before the time gets too near, say within a day. However, I wanted to share with you a paradigm shift that I have discovered in the meaning of Political Correctness. I will share this idea with you, and others that may be regarded as Liberal who read this blog. Political Correctness is when a person or party is always correct, even when they change positions on issues, and if you do not agree with them, you are wrong. I think the Republican Party has demonstrated political correctness. I person who cannot see merit on the other side of an issue is dangerous as history has proven time and time again. You can find an endless number of examples of this, and I think you should fight against it. For example, I cannot understand why people buy into the notion that a Republican president is automatically stronger on Nation Security. This is political correctness, but is just a myth. Good luck.

Martha Warner · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert if he's seen the Video of Palin giving the welcome speech at the 2008 conference of the Alaska sessionist party?Or read the Alaska Prosecuting Attorney's report of Palin's Abuse of power tactics? or Todd Palin's misuse of the Office of the Governor or Alaska? Or Palin being "protected from witchcraft" by religious extremists "laying on their hands" while speaking in tongues? Or, has Colbert been able to read McCain's public health care files?OR, what was he, Colbert, doing politically when he was eight years old? OR, was McCain really married to his first wife when he proposed to Cindy? OR, does he think the indigenous population in America should have closed the borders when the Europeans came knocking in 1492? Or in the 1600s?

Have fun.
Martha Warner

George Calhoun · 1 year ago

Cobert is one of us, there is no need to prepare, just enjoy the ride. You have to love Colbert and Jon Stewart; you are a lucky man to get the opportunity to appear on his show a second time. I love your work; you are a true American who cares about the U.S.

joan vanoni · 1 year ago

If Colbert addresses the Tell McCain to End the Politics of Hate video, ask him who endorses character assassination more, him (Colbert) or McCain and Palin? Laughingly of course.

marley crane · 1 year ago

Remind him of his question and then ask him which would he spit on the cross or the flag; or whom do you hate more your mother or your father? Laugh at everything he says--he is just playing with you, he is really a sweetie.

Linda · 1 year ago

He could ask: Who's a bigger traitor, you or Oliver Stone? :o)

Mike Huckle · 1 year ago

As well prepped as I thought I was the last time I appeared on the show, Colbert caught me off-guard with his very first question:
"Who hates America more, you or Michael Moore?"

Obviously his assertion was silly, and you should have refuted it imemdiately, eg; something like:
"Michael and I both love America. What we loathe is the current administration destroying the America we love!"

Bob Stein · 1 year ago

If you're asked again "Who hates America more etc" just say, "The Alaskan Independent Party, you know, that militia group Sarah Palin shows so much respect for; they're such mavericks."

Thalia · 1 year ago

"If your negative videos about John McCain cause him to have a heart attack and die, making Sarah Palin president, would you apologize to the country?"

J Hedenstad · 1 year ago

Oh, my -- Colbert is only a "faux Republican", my friend--though so many Republicans who are guests on his show clearly don't get that. Relax ! Enjoy the irony Colbert-style, he and John Stewart have kept us sane during the Bush regime..best of luck, and thanks for all your efforts on behalf of America.

Dave M. · 1 year ago

I think that he may very well ask you (in Stephen's great sarcastic and condescending tone)why you felt so powerless against his awesomeness that you had to enlist the help from the public on how to handle his greatness. To which you may want to respond, "Because I idolize your own abilities to mobilize the public and am only learning from the best".

RicardoSaporta · 1 year ago

PS - Don't forget that deep down inside, Colbert is really on your side. (Notice the last time you were on, when he asked you "is there something else you wanted to add"... he was actually giving you the floor.)

Work with him; you are on the same team.

Mary Rowell · 1 year ago

I think you should totally throw Colbert off by pulling a Barbara Walters. Ask him what kind of tree he'd like to be and why? And ask him if his choice of tree will help him when he runs in 2012.

Jack T · 1 year ago

Try not to take yourself and Mr. Colbert too seriously.

Matt · 1 year ago

I'm not sure I understand the point of this. Colbert is a master satirist, and he did a great job of supporting your case against DeLay. He is also quite funny. Let him do what he does best, and do what you did in the 2006 appearance. He's helping.

Bob Stein · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert if he knows why Sarah Palin hasn't released her medical records. Then follow-up after his answer and say, you have inside knowledge that she's suffering from Northern Exposure.

Jbo · 1 year ago

I believe Colbert will ask you for a detailed explanation of your plan to end the world financial crisis and how it differs from that of Vladimir Putin.

Matt · 1 year ago

Mr. McCain will talk about friends, ask about his.

Mr. McCain will talk about war hero pain, Mr. Obama could then offer to put an end to the pain.

THE CHANGE WE NEED!!!

shirley reese · 1 year ago

If I vote for the "Arab terrorist" (Obama) then does that make me an "enemy combatant"? I sent sent my ballot in and guess what, after careful thought(10 days w/o a Prez pick but all other dots colored in), and much research, I voted for the "Arab Terrorist", Barry, the community organizer. I concluded that having worked from the gound up in a city and town, he was much more accustomed to how bottom feeders like ME< live and survive and what affects and effects us most.

debbie young luty · 1 year ago

Colbert is a spoof on Bill O. Go with it. If he asks about hate tell him you thought McCain was trying to whip up the base in order to cause an incident of national security and that way he could bring the subject back to his so called strengths. He could lead the armed forces in an attack against the liberals who can not grasp the fact that hate is just another way of showing love.

Marie · 1 year ago

Take a lesson from Jesus! He often turned the question around and back on the questioner. Remember when they asked Him about paying taxes to the Romans. He asked them whose picture was on the Roman coins.

Ray Barton · 1 year ago

Do him just like Sarah Palin did. Tell him that you are not going to answer any of his questions. You are going to just talk straight to the American people. It pre empts all discussion. Besides since Colbert is pseudo conservative it is exactly what he wants to hear.

It could be funnier than you might guess, if you ham it up just right.

Holly Mines · 1 year ago

I agree with many of your commentors that you should get some tips from your comic friends so that you can come back quick and funny, but to "Who hates America more....?" I'd say, "We both hate the new American values that say wearing a flag pin is the sign of patriotism. Patriotism is making our country a better place and treating people of other cultures, colors and religions with respect and dignity. That's what people do who love America."

Stacy Hopkins · 1 year ago

See if you can get Colbert to show the cancer one. That is an important issue that we still don't have an answer for.

Setsuna777 · 1 year ago

Listen, it's easy to see Stephen is on our side, you just have to be able to get his jokes. If you don't understand sarcasm, you don't understand his humor, and then you look like an idiot. Just sit back and laugh and go along with the jokes, and try and make some back.

Liz · 1 year ago

Wy are you a terroroist? WHy do you hate McCain? Isn't Sarah Palin hot? Why are you opposed to National Security? WHy don't you want our troops to be armored in Iraq? WHy do you want us to loose the war in Iraq? To tuck tail and go home?
Colbert tends to ask the opposite of whatever you are preaching. I think he expects you to say, "Well, quite the opposite Steven, I know that McCain does ...blah blah blah...." He is trying to give you a platform to be excited about the message you are trying to get out, even if it's by antagonizing you.

Steve · 1 year ago

Just think like a Fox News Nutball like O'really and what kind of loaded pro republican types of questions he might hammer you with.
lol

Pete Saflund · 1 year ago

You should always be prepared for the "when did you stop beating your wife" type questions -- questions that state an assumption in the root of the question. The are explicitly designed to put someone on the defensive. The best defense is to make the questioner defend his assumption and score a point in return, thusly: "what facts lead you to believe either Moore or I HATE America? Don't you honor our constitutional rights of free speech? You know, try as they might Michael Moore's critics have been unable to find substantive errors of fact in any his work, a record the so-called mainstream media can only dream of." Progressives fall into these traps all the time, making us appear weak and lacking in conviction. Just state the facts, but never overlook an opportunity to score.

Louis Hagler, MD · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert:

Sarah Palin - a dumb choice for VP?

or

Sarah Palin - the dumbest choice for VP?

Barbara · 1 year ago

Topping Colbert is hard he's fast and deadly wit are in so fast, you hardly have time to catch your breath before the next zinger hits. But my idea is to turn things around by pulling a Palin, no matter the first question, answer with " OK, but who's the scarier nut case, McCain or Palin?"
I think it will give him his own taste of the Cobert wit and catch him off guard. But who's to say he's not reading this blog to vet you before you can even ask or answer anything. Good luck, I love the show and Stephen plays his part so superbly it's great fun after a long day.

Nancy · 1 year ago

Ask him why he and others in the media don't mention the names of all the board members who served with Obama on the Annenberg Challenge board?

Among the other board members who served with Obama were: Stanley Ikenberry, former president of the University of Illinois; Arnold Weber, former president of Northwestern University and assistant secretary of labor in the Nixon administration; Scott Smith, then publisher of the Chicago Tribune; venture capitalist Edward Bottum; John McCarter, president of the Field Museum; Patricia Albjerg Graham, former dean of the Harvard University Graduate School of Journalism

Others on Obama's supposedly "radical" board included Stanley Ikenberry, a former president of the University of Illinois system; Ray Romero, a vice president of Ameritech; Susan Crown, a philanthropist; Handy Lindsey, the president of the Field Foundation of Illinois; and Wanda White, the executive director of the Community Workshop for Economic Development.)

Since McCain and Palin are smearing Senator Obama with guilt by association, I think the public has the right to know who else was serving on the board at the same time as Senator Obama and William Ayers - they should ALL be painted by the same brush. I'm sure they will ALL appreciate McCain and Palin using the same guilt by association for every member of the board serving at the same time as Ayers and Obama were involved with the Annenberg Challenge.

Max · 1 year ago

Just please don't take yourself or the interview seriously. That practically guarantees that you will pan. The show is satire, after all. Have fun and use whatever opportunities present themselves for tongue-in-cheek digs at the repubs.

terrence sherry · 1 year ago

"Barack Obama:
Great Muslim Terrorist, or Greatest Muslim Terrorist?"

alidra solday · 1 year ago

If you get a chance, ask him who he thinks hates America more, and include John McCain as a choice. Do find a way if you can to address the
politics of hate and the fomenting of hatred and
violence by the McCain campaign. - how McCain
has changed from the person who promoted McCain-Feingold campaign reform to someone who no longer
operates on principles(did he ever?) and who uses Palin as his attack dog to do his dirty work. Is
it even possible to do this with humor?

Patryk · 1 year ago

I don't think you can succeed on the Colbert Report if you're trying to be overly serious. The show airs on COMEDY Central. It's meant to put seriousl people in very awkward positions. I think the best thing to do is be prepared to work in serious or witty responses that bring up issues you want to talk about.
Expect to be asked ridiculous questions and be confident and ready to laugh them off.

Great clips from Colbert shows come from guests that try to take him seriously and answer his questions seriously when Colbert is blatantly busting their chops by posing questions that cater to the guests' extreme views.

CARL BASNER · 1 year ago

If Colbert should ask the same question again, who hates America more?, simple answer with - the Palins and their AIP, which begs the question of McCain who calls her his "soul" mate.

Thank you for all your good work, you are a true truth hero.

John · 1 year ago

It's not satirical, but ask Colbert if he agrees with McCain's supporters that Obama is a terrorist and that he should be killed (this would obvoiusly throw Colbert).

theroyprocess · 1 year ago

Bob,
Remember the famous TV political ad LBJ vs Barry
Goldwater about a little girl and an atomic bomb!
As an anti-nuke activist, I would like to see
anybody take a real certified Geiger counter on
TV and measure the host plus everything else!
Even show pictures of readings in grocery stores,
appliances etc!

Bonnie Gusland · 1 year ago

Why don't you ask him why McCain keeps having Klan rallys and does he support that. How about asking about Sarah Sucession why she hates America. She hangs around with a terriorist who hates American (Todd) who was a party member until 2002. Love your films, thanks so much for what you do.

Danielle · 1 year ago

Colbert is a satirist,go on the show,have a good time,laughter is healing,and Colbert will help you nail what ever it is that gets brought up. Does anyone remember laughter,hahahaha! Don't take yourself to seriously. What are you Robert G. a scorpio,or something,your being to serious about a comedy situation. Comedy gets across political points well,because everyone needs to laugh!

Dave M. · 1 year ago

I believe some of you are missing the point. Robert is very well informed on Stephen Colbert's satire. He doesn't need to be told that Stephen's actually on his side. He knows that. Robert's just having fun with it all, which is great.

steve kozak · 1 year ago

Just like your last visit he will be obtuse, yet very general. I would go with riley's comment, and use the trick palin used in the debate. What ever he asks you say you are not going to answer his question you are going to speak to the american people and tell them what they want to hear...then say what ever you want.

good luck.

jane praeger · 1 year ago

I'm a professional media coach (and professor of strategic communications at Columbia University) so I'm very opinionated on this subject. But I think you should absolutely prepare your messages and assert some control over the direction of the interview. It doesn't matter what Colbert asks you: You just need a short witty response that acknowledges the question and then a transition to one of your key messages. Its amazing to me that Palin has been coached up the wazoo but Biden/Obama don't yet have a clear sense of who their audience is (not the moderator),and how to talk to them. Most Americans don't know what "deregulation" means or where to find Afganistan on a map. So you've got to be clear, simple, direct, and concrete. And short! Your interview isn't with Steven Colbert: its with his audience.

Jim Wall · 1 year ago

Ask him; How Many Houses do You Own? What ever he replies you say; Oh really??

Marty · 1 year ago

I will look forward to seeing you on Thursday. My advice? Keep your sense of humor when responding to Stephen's sometimes outrageous questions. And remember that they don't always have to be answered, or even taken seriously. Decide what points you want to make, knowing you will have seconds only to do so, and work them in when and where you can, with your natural sincerity and humor. You had the audience with you by the end of your last interview, so you can do it! He had David Gergen on last week; I recommend that you watch this interview. Gergen managed to make a number of really serious points about the nastiness and possible hate-mongering of the McCain-Palin campaign, even while going along with the light and playful questions by Colbert. It was perhaps the most memorable interview I have seen this election season, and may have been instrumental in getting those two candidates to tone down their rhetoric a bit this week. The Colbert Report is a great opportunity, so make the most of it! Don't worry about being embarassed; that's his style. Just keep smiling, except when you have a serious point!

Gary Webb · 1 year ago

Obama smokes and is a follower of black liberation theology. He voted for the Patriot Act, wants to intervene in other countries before USA, support Agenda 21, privileges over rights, member of CFR (which Dick Cheney directed for some time), member of AIPAC, associates with Bill Ayers and Tony Resko, imperialist who gets money from JP Morgan, Chase, etc and more. He is a socialist. KnowBeforeYouVote.com explains it all. McCain is no better or worse. The lesser of 2 evils is still evil. Read Jerome Corsi's book Obama Nation and read between the lines.

www.ThirdPartyTicket.com
www.VoterBomb.com
www.CampaignForLiberty.com

fang · 1 year ago

Ask the little twerp if his mamas' name was Claudette...

terrence sherry · 1 year ago

"If Palin is a pitbull with lipstick, what kind of farm animal with mascara is Joe Biden?"

Suzanne · 1 year ago

This is pretty funny all by itself! Just for kicks you guys can read some of the best comments from this blog...or was that your devious plan all along?? I'm just happy to see so many folks who are using their intelligence and humor to navigate these times. Everything really WILL be alright.

j goldstein · 1 year ago

The other comments are correct . . . and better than mine. What fun! There are some incipient quality Colbert writers out there.

To keep it light and fun, try and agree first, then move to modify. For example, to the Michael Moore question respond: "your right, I guess I am misguided and should really be making films about how great it is to have a [e.g.] Vice Presidential candidate who wants Alaska to become a separate nation . . . or a Presidential candidate whose every answer to a challenge like why he has seven houses is ‘you know Stephen, there was a time when I had a 5' cell as a house’ . . . . Yes Stephen that is what I should be doing . . . ! Instead I choose to do the silly thing like expose to millions of viewers on YouTube how McCain has changed positions more than you change your sheets or . . . "

and don't take yourself so seriously! -- this ain't 60 minutes! I am excited to see you there, I watch Colbert all the time! Keep up the great work!

Yousa Douchebag · 1 year ago

Soooo, all these comments are from your "Intelligent" following, huh? Most of 'em wouldn't know satire if it slapped them in the face!

Here are some questions I'D ask you, if you had the balls to show up anywhere other than a show which just preaches to the choir:

1. How can a candidate claim he'll reduce taxes for 95% of Americans when 35-40% of all Americans pay NO federal taxes?

2. How can a tax increase on this country's most successful small businesses create more jobs?

3. Were you to win, where would be the checks and balances to you, Harry Reed and Nancy Pelosi?

4. Have you ever seen a tax you didn't embrace?

5. You defeated Hillary, in no small part, by out-dueling her on getting out of Iraq. You stated we'd be out of Iraq in 16 months. Now that the primary is over, your tune has changed. What is your LATEST deadline for total withdrawl? Do you even have one anymore (that's a rhetorical question--all talk of deadlines is over, now that Iraq is no longer a big issue).

6. Since we're going to be staying in Iraq for God knows how long, AND because you'll only be redeploying troops to Afghanistan, where will the $100s of BILLIONS come from to fund your wildly expensive proposals (universal healthcare, $150 BILLION for alternative energy, "improving security for our transit systems and chemical plants, to increasing cargo screening in our airports and seaports," ETC., ETC.)?

Colbert's show is only 30 minutes...just take your pick, Robert. Oh, you've got to squeeze in a plug, don't you? Surely you've got a 25th Anniversary edition of your smash hit "Xanadu" coming out, don't you? I'd love to see all the outtakes and hear Olivia Newton John's thoughts on the groundbreaking work you did directing this masterpiece!!

Gregg Theo · 1 year ago

You should make a video spoofing Colbert and his show's intro as being too american for a frenchman. You should put a baret on him ala John Kerry.

How could anyone with the name Colbert be American? His name means "renowned, bright, famous" of OLD French origin. A variation of Colbert is COLT!! You can even call him Stephen Colt 45!!!

imrambo314 · 1 year ago

Are you an unrepentant "terrorist" like Ayers. Your response should say how the book where they got the quote from is actually a comdenation of terrorism in all forms, he was stating it to make a greater point. 0 people were injured or killed as a result of Ayers actions.
Also point out how if the accusations were true then why hasn't McCain chosen to speak about it at any of the presidential debates?

Susan Platt · 1 year ago

Robert
The politics of hate in Pennsylvania has got to be addressed immediately. It was a staggering revelation of the lowness of human nature and the direct influence of the Klan in Penn.
Bring up the KKK!

Timmy D. · 1 year ago

When talking to someone we were ALL taught to look the other person in the eye. Here is a moronic candidate for President of the United States that can't look his opponent in the face and talk straight. Look me in the eye and tell me that you can trust John McHate. And please don't point to me from your backside and call me THATONE.

bonnie · 1 year ago

Bob:

You do great work. Thank you. Perhaps you could work up a funny comment about all the camera shots of Palin's behind during the Vice Presidential Debate. So that you don't sound "sexist" you can say one of your female fans requested you comment on this. That is clearly going for the "show men a pretty woman and there goes his brain" votes. I'm afraid this even has an effect on "liberal men".

I agree with the comments advising you to be well rested and relax and speak from your heart about things that you are MOST concerned about for America. And enjoy yourself! It's a great opportunity!

Most of your viewers are concerned that the election will be stolen. The power structure will not give up the white house and Congress without a fight. What conservatives don't understand is that this election is not about Barack Obama, it is about a pro-democracy movement in this country that will not end if Obama or McCain for that matter "wins". The movement is demanding REAL CHANGE, REAL DEMOCRACY. The corporate media is now warning that if McCain/Palin don't win there could be violence....but they are not admitting the truth of what will happen if another election is stolen in this country. I think this needs to be said. I think people are now mad enough to get out in the streets.

I also think you have a chance to talk to the left on the show and implore them not to vote for Nader because they think Obama is so far ahead. This election has to overwhelm the voting apparatus. It cannot be close because that is when it is easiest to steal.

Thanks for asking for input!

Angelika · 1 year ago

Please don't worry about nailing Colbert. He is on your side. He just plays republican and I am sure you know this already. Think of him as a brilliant dude that essentially wants what you want, but is not blunt about it. Look at the last interview he did with the guy (sorry forgot his name) that did the movie about Bush (to be played soon in independent theaters.) They both played republicans. Play republican as he does and show how ridiculous this position is these days.

Robert Baertsch · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert if he would star in a adult film with Sarah Palin.

Jim · 1 year ago

Would you use the same contracter to build your house as Governer Palin and Senator Stevens?

Lynne · 1 year ago

I'm sorry. Don't have any advice for you. I do not watch Stephen Colbert and I do not think he is funny. Just be yourself. You'll be fine!!

Ron · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert, "why do you and Papa Bear hate America so much?" I truly hope that the Fairness Doctrine is reinstated! The divided America we face is a direct result of Hate Radio!

raremare · 1 year ago

Sir; You make great movies, unfortunatly you are not much of a debator. One of the first rules of debate is Do Not let your opponent define you. The question "Who hates America more, you or Michael Moore?" presupposes that you both, in fact, hate America. The correct answer was that neither of you hate America. When you talk about Tom Delay, he makes the assumption that Delay is not a criminal because he is not in jail. Again, false assumption. Don't let him get away with it. You were visably nervous (I would be too) but hopfully this time you will be more comfortable. Take your time,and think about what is really being asked. If he interrupts you, wait politely until he is done, and then continue to answer the question you want to answer. It worked for Sara Palin!! Finally, be prepared with afew one liners of your own--two or three on different topics should do. Chances are that during the segment you will have a chance to deliver at least one of you own. Finally, relax and enjoy. Just by being on the show, you can show the audience that BraveNew films and the people who support you are not some kind of wild eyed radicals but rather Americans who love and care about this country. Good Luck

Janny · 1 year ago

Colbert's first question might be, 'Why are you trying to help a terrorist(s)? That is what the McCain/Palin campaign says Barak Obama is, right? And he must be with a name like that.'

A question you might ask, should you get a chance, is, 'Why are you helping McCain Palianate America?'

Daniel Lovejoy · 1 year ago

If you go on his show without realizing he is going to ask these types of questions, you probably shouldn't go on the show.
Seriously, if your last appearance caused you so much grief, then you either need to develop a better sense of humor, or just stay away.

Dr. Deah Schwartz · 1 year ago

I don't have a guess about what he may specifically ask you, but anything you can say that makes it all about colbert will certainly catch him off guard...he loves having his tushy kissed, and maybe tell him he is the subject of your next film. Have fun!!!

Bob McPherson · 1 year ago

Remembering that Colbert is posing as a rabid ultra-rightwing-nut, might help. What would Rush Limbaugh say? What would O'Reilly say?

Keep up the good work!

Bob

Jim Ruen · 1 year ago

The simple answer to your query of what to say is to "pull a Palin." Quote her directly without attributing of course as to how you aren't going to answer the question, but instead speak directly to liberal Americans...
You get the drift. After all if she can do it, why not you.

Casey McCarty · 1 year ago

Hi Robert,

I've noticed that the folks that do the best with this quick witted comic is to be sure and bring your sense of humor. "Steve! Just because I complain about my children doesn't mean I've stopped loving them more than anything in this world. And you my brother?"

Please remember to have fun.

Casey

Conie Michalik · 1 year ago

You must be an idiot. I saw those shows, didn't you realize that Stephen Colbert is on the Comedy Network? It's spoof. I also know Michael Moore personally, he knows that Stephen is a spoof. He doesn't take offense at any of Stephen's ribbing. If you can't handle Stephen, then don't go on his show. Lighten up a little!

Beto · 1 year ago

I hope Colbert asks why you've dedicated your efforts to supporting Obama, who disagrees with you on many crucial issues, e.g., the bailout, but not Nader who is a true progressive and liberal on important issues.

www.votenader.org

While Obama repeats the same rhetoric without substance he has espoused throughout his entire campaign, Nader is campaigning in universities and college campuses, opening himself to real questions and scrutiny. Check out his remarks in Santa Cruz:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7tAje8ZVos&feat...

Bob · 1 year ago

Colbert is on your side. Keep a cool head and explain the facts as the topics come up, worry about nailing McCain like you do in your videos, not about nail Colbert.
Just remember, he's like an exaggerated version of O'Reilly for humor and his audience knows it.

Dave · 1 year ago

Ask him first: Who hates America more, you or Sean Hannity?

Nancy Gershman · 1 year ago

Right now your films preach to the choir. What they really need to do is appear as if they come from the GOP and go point by point - as if you're talking to a Republican friend or colleague - why Obama is the safest, wisest choice.

Hal Dendurent · 1 year ago

Keep in mind that Stephen Colbert is not Jon Stewart. Though he is clearly a liberal. he is 100% a comedian and completely determined to maintain his right-wing bloviator persona. He won't give you a serious chance to pitch your position; just accept that. You will make a much more favorable impression if you keep it light, and even funny, if you can manage that. In short, lighten up.

Don Wolochow · 1 year ago

The main thing you must do is prevent Stephen from hogging the conversation. We watch every show, and it's infuriating how he monopolizes the conversation with some guests. Don't let him do it---call him on it, and get your points across whatever it takes. If he asks the "when did you stop beating your wife" type of question, tell him, "Oh no you don't, Colbert---I didn't come here to listen to your Papa Bear (Bill O'Reilly) attacks; I came here to tell America ..........

This is serious business, and you need to get your web address and other info out there for those who haven't seen your films, and don't let Stephen be a distracting influence. You do understand, of course, that Stephen Colbert is one of us and that the whole show is a put-on.....

Ron · 1 year ago

The folks that do the best on his show are the ones that make him laugh. As others have said, HAVE FUN!

Jay · 1 year ago

Maybe you could tell him you'd like to do a feature version of his "Threat Down" segment and then ask him "Which is the greater threat Bears or Bear Markets?" Or maybe you could suggest that he consider challenging Governor Palin on why she is shooting wolves from planes rather than bears.

Mitchell Jon MacKay · 1 year ago

It's simple. Merely state that it is not hate of America, it is love of America for what it once tried to stand for. Naysayers use words of deceit and all that is required are words of positive thinking to defeat that erroneous and hateful slander. Simply change the subject and refuse to speak on those terms. Become the MC yourself, negate the usurper of logic. Take the initiative and become the moderator. Laugh. Make fun of the ridiculousness of patriotism without honor, without compassion. MJM

Brian · 1 year ago

Just ask him calmly, "Do you really think that John needs my help to lose this election?"

Holly · 1 year ago

The only reason Colbert questioned your patriotism was to get a rise out of you. We are down to the wire now and the McCain campaign is desperate and pulling whatever they can out of their proverbial asses. I'm sure there will be focus on the hate politics because they got nothing else. Just stick to the facts. We know Obama isn't a terrorist so that shouldn't even rattle your cage. The TRUTH will set you free with a lot of humor of course! Good luck.

Phil · 1 year ago

Ask him or make a statement: addressing Accountability - exactly WHO is responsible to watch where Paulson and Greenspan do their Bailout "spending" + where do we see this evidence? And second question or statement: who is or will be reponsible for distribution of the "REFUNDING FINANCES/MONEY" that will be "replacing" Paulson/Greenspan's "theft" er "spending" (no need to ask where to see evidence as still future in USA)? Keep up your great work. Colbert also.

B. Scott Andersen · 1 year ago

Be yourself. Smile. Relax.

We're all looking forward to seeing you Thursday.

-- Scott

Joannie Parker · 1 year ago

Thank you, Robert Greenwald. Your work is simply brilliant.

warren · 1 year ago

Ask him why he asks idiot questions even when he has guests of considerable merit.
While much of his show is funny, it does him no good to monopolized an interview with his inane questions. No one is laughing and viewers are loosing the opportunity to possibly learn something.

cindy · 1 year ago

answer his question with a question, and keep smiling (ask if he's afraid that you are more powerful than he is)....or you could try sitting on his lap, it worked for Jane Fonda...but dont forget, he's really on your side, look for your opening to say what you need to...

Lee · 1 year ago

Just be yourself and have fun. You could laugh at all his "serious" questions and agree with his bloviator persona 100%. Maybe that will throw HIM off. Your invitation to be on his show is testament to the great work you're doing!

Lizzie · 1 year ago

Show you have a sense of humor. NOT by making jokes yourself, but by enjoying the ride... and not taking yourself too seriously.

Jeanne Mann · 1 year ago

It's a comedy show. It's a satire about how stupid the far right is. Don't take it so literally. Colbert is not a conservative; he just acts like one on steroids to make us laugh. He's one of us. Don't you watch "The Word"? Just make a point about the hate-mongering by McCain/Palin, but if he goes off on a tangent, so what? The bottom line is that he will vote Obama, and so will his Colbert Nation. Relax and have fun, and don't forget to laugh. Laughing at a stupid question like who hates America more, you or Michael Moore, is the best way to defuse it and show it to be the parody it is.

Frank Z. · 1 year ago

Colbert works with the same tactic as Lyndon Johnson. The story is that Johnson asked a campaign worker to start spreading the rumor that his opponent sleeps with donkeys. The aide replied, "No one is going to believe that." To which Johnson replied, "I know. I just want to hear him deny it."
So, be prepared for the most outrageous, insulting questions. That's Colbert job. Expect Ayers, Obama's terrorist cell, muslim fanatics to all be wrapped into one question.
The answer should be more ridiculous than the question. Throw Colbert for a loop and give an answer that has nothing at all to do with the question or reality as we know it. Come prepared with goof ball answers on note cards that you will recite no matter what question he asks. Act as if you have a bug in your ear and are getting answers from somewhere else. Launch into a tirade about peanuts and straw hats. Answer the next question with a poem by Rumi. Start crying and then start laughing. Go surreal and put him on his head. Make him stretch. When he throws a curve ball, swing with a feather boa.

GLORI NORTON · 1 year ago

whenever you get a question just answer Sarah Palin

daliav · 1 year ago

"Steve- can I call ya Steve? - why do you love hate so much? Don't be a 'hater,' Steve."

Timmy D. · 1 year ago

Is Sarah Palin really that ignorant or just a stooge for the "first dude" and duped by Mcbush and the party to portray the vicious, slimy, attack dog that she has embarrassingly established herself as? Her initial impression of a cute soccer mom has quickly turned into a vile, hatefilled, diarrhea spewing, fearmongering, pig. And those are her best points.

GAYF · 1 year ago

You have received too much advice. Relax and "go with the flow." Have Fun!! It's comedy--spoof.
Don't think, react.

Yes, Yousa Douchebag! · 1 year ago

.

The BEST POST so far!!

"Soooo, all these comments are from your "Intelligent" following, huh? Most of 'em wouldn't know satire if it slapped them in the face!

Here are some questions I'D ask you, if you had the balls to show up anywhere other than a show which just preaches to the choir:

1. How can a candidate claim he'll reduce taxes for 95% of Americans when 35-40% of all Americans pay NO federal taxes?

2. How can a tax increase on this country's most successful small businesses create more jobs?

3. Were you to win, where would be the checks and balances to you, Harry Reed and Nancy Pelosi?

4. Have you ever seen a tax you didn't embrace?

5. You defeated Hillary, in no small part, by out-dueling her on getting out of Iraq. You stated we'd be out of Iraq in 16 months. Now that the primary is over, your tune has changed. What is your LATEST deadline for total withdrawl? Do you even have one anymore (that's a rhetorical question--all talk of deadlines is over, now that Iraq is no longer a big issue).

6. Since we're going to be staying in Iraq for God knows how long, AND because you'll only be redeploying troops to Afghanistan, where will the $100s of BILLIONS come from to fund your wildly expensive proposals (universal healthcare, $150 BILLION for alternative energy, "improving security for our transit systems and chemical plants, to increasing cargo screening in our airports and seaports," ETC., ETC.)?

Colbert's show is only 30 minutes...just take your pick, Robert. Oh, you've got to squeeze in a plug, don't you? Surely you've got a 25th Anniversary edition of your smash hit "Xanadu" coming out, don't you? I'd love to see all the outtakes and hear Olivia Newton John's thoughts on the groundbreaking work you did directing this masterpiece!!"

.

Chantal · 1 year ago

Ask Stephen: "Who are you NOT voting for?"

Colbert Jr. · 1 year ago

1)Why are you doing this ? What's in it for you ? No I mean REALLY what's in it for u? Place at Whitehouse ? can you reign me in?
2)So you say you want a platform to better educate America..hm..why not be an official strategist for the Democrats ?
3) Have you talked to Ayers recently ? What's his position on the recent attack campaigns against him ? For instance, why did Obama call him "Just a fellow from his neighborhood?

Carol · 1 year ago

Much as I love Corbert and Stewart, I know as well as you that these shows are staged and rehearsed. You probably already know the script, but just in case, could you talk about Palin's Pals, like Mark Chryson of the Alaska Independence party, who was quoted as saying "The fires of hell are frozen glaciers compared to my hatred for the American Gov't". That should end the "who hates America most" debate.

Ellen · 1 year ago

Stephen is all tongue in cheek. Find a snappy comeback and catch him off guard. Don't be too serious.

Thanks for helping us to inform people !

Jim Keating · 1 year ago

Don't worry about any question he would ask. The first question he asked you before could be answered easily by saying, "We both love america and it's people with all of our heart and soul." All you need to do is speak the truth. There isn't anything else to say.

Good luck, and have fun,

Jim

SpoonieLuv · 1 year ago

I really enjoyed Oliver Stone's approach. He maintained composure, didn't blatantly attack Republicans and yet offered up indisputable facts. He was relaxed and had a good time with it,
knowing that Colbert the satirist gets it and Colbert the character is a tool.

SW · 1 year ago

Don't forget that Colbert is skewering right wing pomposity with his persona. Use the same type of question on him. Palin is such an incredible weak spot for McCain's campaign, there is definitely material there. I just saw a photo of her little girl giving the finger to another kid--attitudes are learned at home!

jennifer · 1 year ago

The Boston Tea Party was fueled by terrorists. Terror = fear. Republicans sell fear. Sarah Palin incites treason and potential mob violence against (a) black people, (b) muslims (c) anyone they don't understand. They are pandering to the least educated among us ie, the most vulnerable. This is cruel. This is cheap. This is dangerous. Barack's associations with Ayers have all been for the good : Read: education of children. His association with Retzko is unstained as well. McCain's association with Keating is not. He helped the guy dodge prosecution for fraudulent dealings with joe 6 packs' money!! Palin's judgment in allowing her husband to occupy her gubernatorial conference room and speak for the government because her former brother in law pisses her off has got to be petty and vengeful. She fired the police chief of Wasilla because he supported bar closures at 1 in stead of 5 am , preventing drunk driving incidents as people go from Anchorage at 1 to drink more in Wasilla until 5. Why? because the bar owners pitched into her campaign. She also fired him because he supported a bill to not carry a concealed weapon in schools. She got funding from NRA and told him "you shouldna said that." She is just as bought & paid for as any self respecting lobbyist in the beltway and gets a whole lot more personal. She follows her own agenda and even McCain is having trouble keeping her on message. Your films are extreme, but they are extreme to make a point. To get people to consider both sides of the debate. Ah, the First Amendemnt! The great marketplace of ideas. Don't let him drown you out. It's all about all the voices getting in there. The market will support or decline to support those that don't gain a foothold. Get your voice out there & keep it there! Be respectful but live your convictions!

John M · 1 year ago

He'll ask, "How long have you palled around with a Weatherman?" To which you can say, Al Roker and I go back longer than a bear's cave.

Ken Bley · 1 year ago

Mr. Greenwald:

You are a brilliant and wonderful thinker, but Colbert is the deity who wields the hammer.

Colbert will try his best to make you look good, but he will pound on you, so wear a helmet.

Bette Holmes · 1 year ago

has he ever been treated for PTSD?

Zee Hun · 1 year ago

If Colbert claims that McCain trying to end the politics of hate, the Arab American community have a response to this claim:
The community is deeply offended by Mr. McCain's reply to that woman "who claimed that Obama is an Arab), he should have defended 3 million Arab Americans (if not 300 million around the world), he was suppose to explain to that woman that being an Arab is not a sin and most Arabs are trustworthy, not only he did not defend his fellow Arab American citizens, he actually added insult to the injury by hinting that Obama is a decent family man because he is not an Arab. McCain simply allowed for the word "Arab" to continue to be a slur.

mark hoffman · 1 year ago

Mr mccain talks a lot about his being a prisoner of war and being a vetran, but how soon he forgets when it comes to helping his fellow vetrans when voting on benefits for his fellow vetrans. either he doesn't show up for voting or worst yet he shows up and votes no sayingt they are too generous and soldiers wil not reenlist go to school and leave the service.His voting record on helping his fellow vetrans is awfull almost to the point of disgracefull.Bring this to the attention of mr Colbert When he is talking up john mccain.

Pam Hickey · 1 year ago

Word on the street!! He's been purportedly spotted in clandestine places with ANN COLTER!!!I think there may be a story there! "What say you Mnsr. Colbert?" (Where is Ann Colter when we need her?) She has tossed the little black shift for Colbert!

Doug · 1 year ago

Palin him. If he asks a question you don't want, just tell him that you are not going to answer that and then launch into a long winded explanation of something else. Don't let him interrupt you until you are done, just keep talking. Then finish with a question. Get Socratic on his ass, keep asking questions, drilling down until he finds himself in an indefensible position.

PS> I love Stephen. BITING sarcasm!

Mary Rabon · 1 year ago

Hi Mr. Greenwald,

Stay loose, don't let him get to you and keep smiling. I think you should bring up how racist McCain's campaign has become; that he & Palin seem to be enjoying the hatefulness of their followers; she even said how she likes the signs and the chants and the exchange from the crowds. Talk about McCain's problem with temper control and how that will be an international danger for our country. I also agree that you should get your website out there and publicize your wonderful, informative films.

Please, keep up the good work.

Peace,
M.

Chris · 1 year ago

Say to him "You're being negative, aren't you?" and when he says, "No, I'm not!" you've caught him being negative. Alternately, scramble his brains by asking him "You don't understand what I'm saying, are you?" Should be fun...

D.R. Darke · 1 year ago

Hey, ask him who hates America more - Steven Colbert, Bill O'Reilly, Sean Hannity, Glenn Beck, Rupert Murdoch or Pat Buchanan? Get a volley going.... ;)

Marc Groah · 1 year ago

I would suggest that you read the detailed Rolling Stone article from this months issue for any possible ammo you might need for Cobert's questions. And as for a question to ask him (and I would suggest asking him right away -- before he gets his question to you in) is... "Steven, tell me, who are you voting for this year? And why?

Dss · 1 year ago

Clever ploy to gain support of your appearance! Bring a small video camera with you. Film Colbert interviewing you from your side of the table. If he interrupts you constantly and doesn't let you finish a sentence (which is his M.O, as you know) you can say, "I thought was invited on to be interviewed, and that I might be able to answer at least one question...but I can tell you'd rather spend this time asking me questions and giving me your point of view, so I'm here to document it! We are going to call it, "Who is the Real Stephen Colbert?" You'll garner a lot of applause from the audience when you ask them, "Who here as seen my films at BraveNewFilms?" As you know, Stephen loves when the guest takes charge. And sometimes, he lets down his right-wing persona and lets the guest speak. But if you can't get a word in edgewise, start video-taping him.

sharon kansas · 1 year ago

Give Stephan back his own quotes=-tell him, "I aplogize for being perfect."

Grant Tupper · 1 year ago

If Cobert ask you questions like "Who hates America more, you or Michael Moore?" Look him straight in the eye and tell him that it depends on what you win! I love Colbert Report and have been watching it from day one. I believe that if you want the most time possible to state your piece then start off by stroking the old Colbert ego. No matter what question he ask you just reply "Hey I am just glad I'm not on the Daily Show!"

sunshine · 1 year ago

He might ask you did Americans lose more retirement investment money in the 3 past weeks or in the past 7 years? I believe many
people will think when they get their statements and see their loses they'll blame them all on the market tanking the past 3 weeks when in actuality much of their money was lost before the market crash of the last 3 weeks.


And I also would like to know who lost the most money Democrats or Republicans? I think Democrats lost more money due to the various large unions they belong to that collects retirements funds such as teacher unions, labor unions such as auto workers, steel workers, postal unions, nurses unions, police and firefighters association unions, coal miners unions, electrial and plumbers unions, air traffic controllers unions etc...

Or he may ask you if it is true that Rep. Brad Sherman announced in congress that they were threathened with market losses of 1,000 to 1,500 points a day and even threatened with martial law if congress did not pass a bail out bill?

joseph Hughes · 1 year ago

Bob,
Colbert just wants controversy so lets give it to him.McSenile and you should slip this namesake into the conversation as it is fact.7 missing houses? Then there is the surge question and no one has noticed this fact as to why it worked.Not even Barack and I can not understand why.So tell him you have the answer as to why it worked.The Sunnis and their tribal leaders were a problem in Bagland(sic).They were part of the problem ( Saddam supporters) in a country majority of Shites.So what did the U.S.do? They started paying the tribal chiefs with hundreds of thousands of u.s. currency to protect their own areas.This is fact. So now we have the Sunnis securing their own areas before the surge troops arrive and driving out the terrorists. This is what made the surge work not the additional number of American soldiers.There are satalite photos at night showing dark areas of Baghdad where the towns are vacant.

Vickie · 1 year ago

Questions:
1. Why do you hate Sarah Palin? She's more qualified than Joe Biden. She can see Russia from her front yard.
2. Why are the Democrats involved in voter fraud? Can't they win honestly like the Republicans do?

Carl J Sefl · 1 year ago

Let's treat this as a serious opportunity to point out that the McPain rhetoric is getting very close to danger...inciting negative action. Let's NOT make this into a "he said/she said" media contest but rather a serious discussion of some people who are inflaming portions of the population. We don't want you coming off looking like a "kook". Be serious.

Bob Case · 1 year ago

Ask him if he thinks McCain is still cheating on his wife? He's done it before.....

Rob · 1 year ago

When did you stop beating your wife? And why did you film it?

daliav · 1 year ago

Or, how about: "Hey, Steve, what's that brown stuff on your nose? Did that sexy Sarah Palin make a visit to the studio before the show?"

J. Anne Baker · 1 year ago

TELL COLBERT: "I'VE REALLY COME HERE TONIGHT TO ASK YOU TO JOIN ME --- IN MAKING THE NUMBER ONE, BEST ANTI-McCAIN TRUTH AD E-V-E-R!"

in other words, go for his Pride Button--and have fun!!!!

One person said, enjoy, enjoy, go with the flow, be yourself. Relax! But one thing you might bring up, when he cites any of these films made:

Colbert Jr · 1 year ago

4)Who is the Real Greenwald ? 30 secs Go...
5)How do you make videos in favor of someone who shook hands with a terrorist and started political office from that time ? I am not talking about Rumsfeld and Saddam, that's the same story, different time. Are you a terrorist sympathizer?
6)Can we ever take a terrorist of the list like North Korea?

D. Knight · 1 year ago

Ask him how he thinks McCain can justify his verbal "support for the troops" when his voting actions are almost totally anti-troops AND -VETERANS!?! You might check out Brandon Friedman's 10/13/08 blog on Huffington Post. Good luck!

PK · 1 year ago

"Who tells the bigger whopper, John McCain or Sarah Palin?"

or, more straightforward:

"Who is the bigger liar, John McCain or Sarah Palin?"

Michalchik · 1 year ago

The charecetr is vain. If you can figure out a way to make your points by flattering him he will agree with you.

Bring up stuff from the show. Colbert breaking his wrist was a big deal to the charecter. Maybe talk about John McCains torture and injuries in light of the psychological trauma of Colbert Breaking his wrist, he will be terrified along with you.

Watch how bill o'reilly treats his guests at his worst and you will see the kind of zingers that Colbert may throw at you. They will be based on ignorant versions of "common sense".

Nick O'Connor · 1 year ago

You are not going to beat Colbert at his own game, which is making everyone look foolish. He's particularly adept at the lightning ad lib. I think your best moment in your last face off was the line about even Republicans knowing what a trial and a jury are. So, yes, have a handful of biting remarks ready and make him laugh, if you can. This is great exposure for you, but Colbert is a comedian, and the show is for laughs. The situation is serious, but if you appear serious you'll be the loser.

Anonymous for safety · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert whether he palled around with Cubs fans when he lived in Chicago.

Bernadette Tello · 1 year ago

Colbert will most likely ask you:

Do you think it is fair to pick on an old man
who probably doesn't even know how to use a computer?

So a possible comeback might be:

Look where our last illiterate leader got us...Bush never read a newspaper, so Cheney pulled the strings behind the
scenes and do we really want fear/hate-moungering, Sarah Palin a heartbeat
away from being the leader of the free world?

Most importantly, have fun and stand firm in your beliefs...we'll be
cheering for ya!
bt

kate · 1 year ago

The only stumbling block I can see is if he confuses "hate" with "Haight" and goes on a hippy rant. Just wink at him and say "you betcha" every time he makes a joke. He and Rich Lowry love the wink/betcha combination. PS. You might want to bring him a 6-pack.

michalchik · 1 year ago

Be ready for Colbert to nail you on receiving Colbert show advice from this blog.

Archie Stanton · 1 year ago

My suggestion is to remain serious, take pauses in silence while thinking of your response, and don't laugh. Leave laughter to the audience. Good luck.

Monica Guaracha · 1 year ago

Robert, I'll have more for you later, but off the top of my head I can hear him asking, "Who's Obama's favorite terrorist?", or "Why should America pick a terrorist-lover over a decorated war hero?" Like I said, more later.

greg smith · 1 year ago

Ask him if he wants to continue to trivialize the national debate by going for the easy laugh over the thoughtful, considered commentary. Does he have a maximum time percentage which his interviewee is allowed: 90% Colbert, 10% guest?

Martha Warner · 1 year ago

I just learned about some "unsavory" relationships: McCain and G. Gordon Liddy. McCain was on his 2007 radio show and praised Liddy, who still holds the same views that led him to illegal actions and prison, during Nixon's years. Liddy gave money for Mc's campaign. ALSO, another "aide", William Timmons, has a shady background of working with two lobbyists involved in trying to make things easier for Saddam Hussein of Iraq, in exchange for future oil deals. One went to prison (Park) and the other, Vincent, plea bargained. Timmons wrote memos and "non-papers" for their "back channel diplomacy" efforts as they tried to get sanctions lightened for the Iraqi dictator. Ask Colbert who those people are, what they did, how John is related to them? You're looking for information! Put Colbert on the spot! Maybe he has the info, maybe not, but you can drop the hint that he should know.
Good luck, Martha Warner

Pamela More · 1 year ago

You do of course get that Colbert is a premier satirist? That his character is openly a parody of O'Reilly? Smile, laugh, let the audience laugh, sit back, then respond. The people (even/especially the liberals whom he is obviously trying to help by asking really outrageous questions) who get defensive look silly. Have a twinkle in your eye that matches his. Possible question: "John McCain: great candidate, or greatest candidate?"

Sherry Fackler-Berkowitz · 1 year ago

I live in Maryland an Obama state, but yesterday I was driving down the road and the car in front of me (on the dirvers side) had Stewart/Corbert 08 bumper sticker on one side and a McCain/Palin on the passangers side. I would ask Steven if secretly he was supporting McCain and that's why people have both bumper stickers on there car. These were the only bumper stickers on the car.

Hyla Glover · 1 year ago

Ask if he thinks McCain (who owns 7 houses and 13 cars) can ever understand the middle class voter?

Ask him if he would rather have a President who was first in his class at Harvard or a guy who gradated 5th from the bottom of his Naval Academy class.

Papa Bear · 1 year ago

Nice one Yousa. Did you cut and paste that from the Fox News "Talking Points" section.

1. Obama never said he'd reduce taxes on 95% of Americans. He said he wouldn't raise taxes on 95% of Americans.

2. How can the tax breaks on these "small business" eliminate jobs the way they have been over the past 8 years.

3. As opposed to the checks and balances in the Bush administration over the past 8 years? hello pot, I'm the kettle.

4. Rhetorical, and blatantly stupid.

5. Any plan is better than the current non-plan.

6. Same place we're financing things now. Money borrowed from foreign governments that have been reponsibly run over the past 8 years. OR maybe we could use Iraqi Oil to pay for it like we were promised.

(Final un-numbered paragraph)
Xanadu was a masterpiece. Like your post.

Keep trying Yousa... bottom line is... in November YOU LOSE! hahahaha

ari · 1 year ago

have you know shame-who said it and when and how has the McCain campaign re-enacting the worst of the McCarthy era-Who kidnapped the real McCain-Is he the Manchurian Candidate-and the real McCain who had the courage to stand up to the hate mongers of the radical right and christian lunatic fringe has turned into a cowardly facsimile of Carl Rove. Is it a brain tumor, stroke or something more sinister. Who has John's brain. How much is the ransom. Is Palin really the grandaught of eva braun and you know who.

marsha · 1 year ago

Colbert: Can you say irony? He's a comedian. If you don't want to get stupid questions, stick with the "newsmedia" for what good that will do you these days.
At least going on The Colbert Report will show people that liberals still have a sense of humor. So that's my suggestion. Think of every funny thing you can to punt right back to him. I saw today from the Charlotte (NC) Observer:
"We've got them right where we want them"
McCain: 2008
Custer: 1876

There's plenty of funny stuff about Palin that could be fired off right away. Maybe jump on him before he gets the chance to say anything and go on the offense.
I'll be watching.

Jan · 1 year ago

Please lighten up! Don't plan on asking anything, plan on enjoying what he dishes out to you and take it with a sense of humor. You remember humor, don't you?

Ian C. Cree · 1 year ago

I think that the following should be emphasized and questions asked about it:

It is more than clear that Palin will dominate McCain in demanding to control the body of every woman and teenager in the Nation. This is the most extreme form of control by the government of any human being.
In short, in terms of religious beliefs "it's my way or the jailway".

The pitbull has viciously attacked Senator Obama as "palling around with a terrorist" for being acquainted with Illinois University Distinguished Professor Ayres, by being on the same board which was funding fighting poverty and educating poor children.
Ayres had founded the Weatherman group to protest the Vietnam war 40 years before, a war which the USA could never win, since North Vietnam was supported by the Soviet Union which also had the Atom bomb. The group blew up a number of
structures and public buildings around 40 years ago as part of their protest. The majority of Americans joined the protest later and brought this deadly and fruitless war to an end. Senator Obama had no control over the appointment of the Board Members and no control over Ayre's remote past. The New York Times called the accusation "ridiculous". However, the pitbull continues to mud sling the Senator.

By contrast, G.W.B., who has declared "a war on terrorism", has been financially and militarily supporting MEK terrorists, who have bombed and killed civilians in Iran. Thus, he, himself is a terrorist, and McCain is his close friend. So, who is really "palling around with a terrorist"?

Dalia Warren · 1 year ago

I saw the Colbert show that day and thought he was being facetious and saying that anyone who disagrees with Republicans supposedly hates America.

Anyway, ask Colbert who's the funniest Emmy-awardwinning host, him or Jon Stewart.

michael Fahey · 1 year ago

Robert, Ask Colber(t) if getting tortured makes McCain a Hero for Life? If the answer is yes, then follow up with whatdoes that make the innocents rounded into Guantanamo?

Claire Strong · 1 year ago

Dear Robert,

You and your group have done a fine job in
the last 8 years of Hell from the Unelected Bush
cabal in getting the truth out to the public.
You will do well with Stephen Colbert. Just
point out that McCain is no "maverick" and that
his slogan should be "McCain-Palin---Putting
Lobbyists First and Country Last!" His record
speaks for itself.

jerry Miller · 1 year ago

I agree with Pamela Mores' comment. Relax and enjoy yourself. Have fun with the humor and keep a twinkle in your eye!

Ren · 1 year ago

I'm confused why you want to nail Colbert. You do realize Colbert is tongue-in-cheek, don't you? His approach is making fun of FOX News. Joke right back. His audience is mostly comprised of fellow progressive liberals.

starlight · 1 year ago

Since it is impossible to guess what Colbert would ask, I would suggest being prepared with some good questions to come back with. Answer a question with a question and surprise him.

Example:

C:Why do you hate John McCain?

G:What has he done that I should like him for?

C: Why do you liberals love terrorists?

G: Why do you righties call everyone who disagrees with you an unpatriotic, terrorist commie sympathizer?

etc.

Steven · 1 year ago

Everyone knows it is sarcastic spoofing of right wing media. Play along.

Example:

"Who hates America more, you or Michael Moore?"

"Why Michael Moore of course because he has made a lot more money telling the truth than I have."

Dalia Warren · 1 year ago

Oh yeah, also ask him why the Republicans are alienating potential Arab voters by using Barack's middle name as a threat...doesn't that incite violence against the million non-terroist folks with Hussein as a first name?

Danielle · 1 year ago

Several questions come to mind:

Why don't you leave John McCain alone?
Did Bill Ayers baptize Obama's kids?
What Muslim mosque do you belong to; the same one as Obama?
Why does papa bear hate you so much?
Do you pal around with terrorists?
What do you/Obama have against rich people?
If McCain loses, do you think he will put Palin in Joe's place (reaching across the ailse)?

Ken Bley · 1 year ago

It appears that many of us are taking your request for help a bit more seriously than you intended.

Ask Colbert whether he allows his kids to pal around with teddy bears.

donna rochester · 1 year ago

Try to remember that The Steven Colbert show is a comedy show. You will only look foolish if you take him seriously. Relax, keep your sense of humor, don't even try to oneupmanship him. This is his show, not yours. The only guests who look bad are those without a sense of humor who actually try to treat the interview like a real interview. Let him shine. He gets the liberal view out through his twisted sense of the ridiculous. Good luck and have fun.

Mitch Strom · 1 year ago

Wouldn't it be better to not go to the Colbert Report and do Bill Maher's show or Jon Stewart's? As much as I admire Stephen Colbert, it is not a good forum for serious speakers. He will make fun of you, and that's what the public will remember.

Carol · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert if he would consider becoming Press Secretary to Obama, if he's elected, even though his style is more suitable for the "Maverick."

Michael Moran · 1 year ago

The answer to "Who hates America more, you or Michael Moore?" is "Bill O'Reilly." Remember, it's only his personification of the radical right who is interviewing you, and the point is laughs. Promote your website and your activism. But, beware his traps: If dissent is the highest form of patriotism, and patriotism is the last refuge of the scoundrel, where does that leave you?

Roger J. Schultz · 1 year ago

Ask Stephen what he thinks makes a better vice president, being cutesy and winking at the camera refusing to answer any questions pertinent to the country or actually knowing something about the issues facing the American people.

Ryan M. · 1 year ago

I hope you're aware that his show and "character" is all an act and he's probably one of the biggest democrats I know. I think you're taking him way too seriously.

Gary Zientara · 1 year ago

Robert,
You must not know Stephen Colbert that well. He's actually on your side. Watch his program a few times and you'll get it. He pretends to be a Right Wing idealogue, but the content of his program satirizes current Republican thinking. As a matter of fact, he was invited to a Bush fund raiser to ply his humor against the Democratic party, but it backfired when he ended up ridiculing W. See: www.knowledgedrivenrevolution.com

Roll with the punches from his "attacks," then say something like, "Seriously folks.." and continue with your message. He's a fake right winger. He'll give you room to make your message heard as intended.

Maureen · 1 year ago

You could say,"The last thing we need in this volatile world is a volatile president, don't you agree?"
You could say, "Letting rage run the country is scarier than bears"
You could say, "Negative politics leads to negative governance. We've seen that."

Robin · 1 year ago

I agree with Steven - clever comeback.
Indeed, he is NOT on 'their side' It AINT foxnews.
play along indeed.
use sarcasm.
If he sarcastically says that criicizing McCain or our country is unpatriotric, go prepared with the endless quotes that state criticizing our gov IS patriotic. Keep up the great work with your videos!!!

ed · 1 year ago

You do know it's a setup, right? There's no need to "nail" Stephen Colbert--number one, you would be playing into his satirical setup, and two, he's too smart. Just have fun with him, for goodness sakes, and don't take yourself or him so seriously. The issues are serious of course, and Colbert does us all a favor by exposing the follies of the far right, so worry less about nailing him and more about just being honest and open--you will come out just fine when you do that.

JW, Chicago · 1 year ago

Truthiness

Truthiness

Truthiness

Steve, We aren't bashing senator mccain. We are merely trying to find his level of truthiness. We can all agree that truthiness is important, can't we?

Nancy Ross · 1 year ago

No questions, but a couple of comments regarding body language. First off, don't use your middle finger tapping the table when making a point...it looms large in the camera; stay loose and relaxed, lounge a bit, keep your sense of humor well in view.

I'm just very glad Colbert is having you on again. Thanks for all your great videos.

Kevin Mulligan · 1 year ago

Colbert: "How does it make you feel that because of your films, McCain now has you right where he wants you and is now going to win the election?"

GreenWald: "I'm very proud of that. McCain may even get a landslide victory if all his supporter go to my website, watch my films and send them on to their friends. All who are undecided should too."

LeeAnn Hansen · 1 year ago

Sorry, you've already blown it. He's going to find out about this appeal and nail you on it.

Go along with the joke.

Rav Soloff · 1 year ago

How can you ignore the GOP Elephant in the Oval Office for 8 years?

Lynn Feinerman · 1 year ago

Robert, you should wear a T-shirt that says, "I
Love the US, YOU hate it, Stephen..." Then, you
should understand that with somebody like Colbert
you don't necessarily have to answer his questions
as they've been asked. You just talk about what
you wanna say, work it around to that, like the
pols do... yeh, don't think you have to come off
as "serious" or even possessed of "integrity"...
LF

Noetical · 1 year ago

Check out "Colbert University" They have a section that provides advice to interview guests:
http://colbertuniversity.nofactzone.net/index.p...

Gwen · 1 year ago

Colbert seems to be fixated on Sarah Palin. Be well versed on her actions and words.

Cynth The PoetWarrior · 1 year ago

Just pull a Sarah Palin and say, "I'll have to get back to you on that" to any question that startles you. But I would not suggest giving a wink to the audience. That would be a bit too much. Other than that, I've got nothing. Just enjoy the ride!

Brian De Vriese · 1 year ago

When Steven asks a loaded question respond "Is that ketchup on your tie?.

Dorothy Blaustein · 1 year ago

"I raging too, just like McCain and Palin. What is making them so mad?

bob · 1 year ago

" thank you for inviting me onto the Colburr Repoor "

" I found a 't' out in the carpark , does it belong to you ?"

Seer · 1 year ago

The key is to remember that Colbert makes his points about the Right by parodying the right. So, take a look at what the Right is doing right now (is that too many rights? or not enough?) Then, place yourself in the "right back atcha" frame of mind. What's the Right doing?
- They are playing a game of polarization. They think by polarizing voters even more, they will get votes. They do this through lies and exaggerations ("Obama is an arab/terrorist/etc.")
- They are running their politics on hate and accusing the Democrats of doing so to deflect criticism.
- They are replacing substance with style in the form of Sarah Palin.
- They are talking of "elitist" democrats while their policies are creating the most economically stratified society the planet has ever seen. History shows the economically stratified societies die out quickly. Remember Marie Antoinette.
- They lie to make their points and promote theocracy, while hiding behind religion to make themselves look like they aren't violating their own Ten Commandments or the U.S. Constitution

In other words, they are hypocrites. Colbert will try to trip you up by stating their positions to you as fact - while being tongue-in-cheek. If you understand their positions, you will have an answer. The answer is usually not to think about the problem the way they Right phrases it. In other words, if they say "what color was Napoleon's White Horse?" you have to realize that it wasn't white. Or if they say "either you're for America or Against it" you realize that they are defining what "for america" is and you can redefine it as you please.

Good luck.

Margaret · 1 year ago

John McCain is loosing his bid because of his temper and bad choice as VP, Sarah Palin. They are the only 2 candidates that have ethics prooblems. His numbers jumped when he first picked her but have fallen like a rock everytime she opens her mouth.
Not only does McCain have to defuse the crowds from screaming "kill him", "traitor", "bomb him". That isn't the John McCain from only 8 yrs ago.

David · 1 year ago

Obviously, you don't get it about Stephen Colbert. What he does on his show is a CARICATURE; he has said this openly in many interviews.

Jeez, don't you have anything better to do than take a comedy show seriously?

Robin · 1 year ago

how about if you want to give him a zinger and say the only reason I am doing this show is because I was not invited to be a guest on The Daily Show......
he might appreciate the humor in that...

William Carr · 1 year ago

Hmmm.

If it were me, I'd innocently ask Stephen if he believes in Global Warming.

He'll say, ”Yes, because Al Gore's movie made money ! The Market Has Spoken, and therefore Global Warming is a Fact !”.

Then I would ask:

“So, if Barack Obama is elected, isn't that The Market speaking?“.

”And if President Obama and the new Congress balance the Federal budget and get the economy rolling again... ”

“Will YOU, Stephen Colbert, switch Parties and become a Democrat ?”.

David Rubinson · 1 year ago

Lay down with dogs, ya get fleas.
Having been in show biz for lo these many years, here is my best advice- which I gave all my clients, and I know works--
You are not there to answer HIS questions. Do not allow HIM to FRAME the appearance or the question.
You are there to get YOUR point across. Thus- you can disregard/deflect his question with a laugh, a funny remark-
hahahah what a funny question- and then off you go into what YOU want to say.
You have XX minutes, and you are not there to please him. You are there to get your point out there as well as you can.
Every second counts.
They all try to control the situation. Ignore their tactics.
Concentrate on your message, and bring it home.
I would ask him nothing- the rule here is- never ask a question to which you are not sure of the reply.
Go gettem Robert.
Best,

DR

Anne · 1 year ago

As we have learned for the Bushies, the best defense is a good offense, so go for the gusto. Like, "Jesus was a liberal and a radical. Jesus preached against the rich, why do you hate Jesus?"
I really liked Starlight's ideas. I also agree with those who say relax and enjoy yourself. Your work demonstrates your patriotism.

Sarah D · 1 year ago

The most brilliant appearance on the Colbert Report was Oliver Stone. With straight face - absolutely droll - he pretended to be more radically conservative than Colbert.

Since it's the pretend situation room, why not suggest in true Teddy-Roosevelt-Republican style that Manifest Destiny has finally reached its heyday and we should annex all of North and South America?

When guests breathlessly try to get a word in and promote their book, three main ideas, etc it always goes wrong. Pretend to be Jesse Helms. Be droll.

margaretta swigert gacheru · 1 year ago

Robert,he will clearly talk about two things: the debate of wed. night (tonight), which you will already be planning your follow up video--which you should be prepared to be pro-active and tell him what it will be about.
or you must be prepared to talk about your last video, which exposed mccain - palin hate campaign. i would be positive, super-positive about the fact that mccain avoids issues and goes in for personal attacks. he will then try to pretend attack you; but you will stick with the issues, just as you know obama will. margaretta

Lyn Marker · 1 year ago

Ask him something totally out of order. Seinfeld was being rude to a crowd asking relative but boring questions and my friend asked him "After you take a dump, do you wipe back to front or front to back?"
Seinfeld was speechless and my friend had to leave. Colbert will never expect it!

daniel thomas · 1 year ago

He may ask you how you feel knowing that the mere fact that McCain is running is the final chapter in a decades long plot of Revenge constructed in the bowels of the Skull and Bones for the destruction of Joe McCarthy! Be prepared for that!

Jill · 1 year ago

Umm--are you all aware that "The Colbert Report" is a COMEDY show, not a news outlet? And that Colbert himself is not an angry right-winger in real life? IMHO, it is impossible to prepare for his show, since he asks such outrageously off-the-wall questions (that really are funny). Moreover, attempts to "get him" simply reveal the would-be getter as a less adroit comedian than Colbert, whose improv skills are remarkable. My advice is to either take it for what it is, or simply not book yourself onto a show that is rigged against all his guests.

Les · 1 year ago

Bob! Relax! The people who love Colbert know that his right-wing posturing is just that...posturing. So regardless of what question he asks you, just respond as if it were a joke because it is. Stay righteous and have a good time. But idf you're still nervous, Brian's response three comments down is really good.

Phillydog · 1 year ago

Are you prepared to do the same kind of video exposè of "President" Obama when he screws up (and eventually you know he will)?

leslie jackson · 1 year ago

This is tough. I LOVE Steven Colbert, but who knows where he will go with you. With that said, maybe that can be what you ask HIM about. Look over some past shows and see where he may of been flip flopping like McCain. I think that "U-Tube Problem Just Became a Nightmare" is where Steven may go - but who knows, he is incredible at being unpredictable. Good luck. It is better you than me.

Paula · 1 year ago

I love Stephen. Remember his character is a persona he's made up and he WANTS you to win (really!!). Do what others, below, have said: Go along with the joke ... you can PRETEND to be serious, but don't take anything as a real personal attack - IT'S A JOKE!! Have fun. He's super-smart and quick-witted and loves to have the guest nail the right-wing "with" him. Sarcasm and wit. BTW Oliver Stone did wonderfully - he put on his own pretend character and went with it - Stephen loved it.

gary · 1 year ago

discuss McCain's health records.....as that commercial was edited on most networks.

also ....Colbert is doing this as part of his shtick , he is a democrat...he's just fucking with you .

he may ask you ..."why do you hate McCain and Palin?"

and if he does ....tell him ..."they wear bad shoes."....


BRING UP THE ALASKAN SEPARATISTS PARTY....
HELP GET THAT KNOWLEDGE OUT .......

adam · 1 year ago

Q: Who would you prefer for president: a Muslim or a terrorist sympathizer?

Nancy Ross · 1 year ago

PS...Just read a newspaper acct of how indignant the Maverick family, descendants of the original, is at McCain ursurping the eponym for himself. The word came about because the Samuel Maverick cared more about his land than his cattle, thus didn't brand them. As everyone else's cattle were branded, the unbranded cows became known as mavericks. The family has always been progressive, conservation-minded liberals. Samuel Maverick helped to organize the Democratic Party in Texas after the Civil War.

However, there is a connection between Samuel Maverick and John McCain that is much more to the point. Maverick invented the word "gobbledygook" to define political and bureaurocratic doublespeak, something McCain excels at.

Don · 1 year ago

Don't let him lead you into a trap with an insinuating question. IE "So when did you stop beating your wife". If this sort of question is the best he can lead in with, answer with a small laugh and a question of the same nature. Hindsight is always best. It would have been nice to answer the first time "Well I'm not sure what you mean by hating America and I'm not Michael Moore." I thought I was here to discuss issues intelligently and not be subject to comparisons of people you believe to hate something." You might hate his idea of what America is supposed to be, so be on your toes to combat his concept with a patriotic stance and how lies and deceit have brought our democracy to the state it's in today.

Then you can lead in to making some valid points on how our country has been stolen from us. If he tells you that your not on the history channel and anything that happen 20 years ago (Keating 5) is ancient history, ask him if he still associates with the people he did business or had contacts with 20 years ago. Anyone in the same career for that amount of time has made and still uses contacts for information and allies.
Good luck with your interview and remember your in the right not him. "Don"

daniel thomas · 1 year ago

Ask him how HE feels knowing that McCain already has plans to have an actual elephant moved into the Oval Office on a permanent basis so that anyone thinking of bringing up the metaphorical "Elephant In The Room" would be caught off guard. More Bush than Bush himself!

Ken Bley · 1 year ago

Offer Colbert a gilded hammer, together with a nail and a block of wood to use instead of you.

Linda · 1 year ago

I would go with the "I'm glad you asked that Stephen," or "Excellent question." Then go off and talk about whatever you think is important. Play the straight man role. Trying to play his game is futile. He's an actor playing a character who doesn't have a need to play by common social rules or even use common sense. If you go your own way with your responses, it really doesn't matter what he asks. Just smile and have a good time. We're all with ya.

davidorr · 1 year ago

Robert,
Follow the standard playbook for any politician being interviewed: stick to your message. Decide in advance what you want to say, and make it humorous. As Paula (previous commentor) notes, it's even funnier if you come to the show with your own persona, as Oliver Stone did so well. And the best play you can make is to turn the tables on Stephen by asking HIM some off-the-wall questions, like "who hates liberals more, you or (fill in the blank)?"

Michelle · 1 year ago

You may want to try the Sarah Palin tactic -- blatantly avoid answering his questions while forwarding your platform and videos. If he calls you on it, say, "Look Stephen, I learned this form of blowing off interviewers questions and pushing my own agenda directly from Palin and McCain - they are masters at it -- and do you see how it irritates you? Well that is how irritated and frustrated the American voters are with She-Bush and mini-me-Bush!"

You can also appeal to his ego: "Stephen, you are just sour grapes that McCain picked Palin instead of you for VP -- let's BOTH educate the public on how disastrously wrong she is for the job.....stick with me on this...and I"ll post videos of you at my website endorsing you for VP....because ANYONE is better than PALIN."

Knock one out of the ballpark for us!
Hugs of support to you,
MIchelle

Tim · 1 year ago

Personally, I would try and find the humor in it and run with it. He is a comedian first and foremost, you have to remember that. When he is asking a serious question, he is asking a "serious" question. Play to his comedic ear.

Deanie Adams · 1 year ago

Robert: Why dignify the Colbert sleeze-monster with an appearance where he will only try to make a fool of you? This doesn't dignify you, or the positions you represent. Colbert is the one with the burden of "feeding the beast". If he can only find people who agree with him, then his "game" will be over. (Which to my way of thinking, would be a good thing.) Why allow him to use you for his aggrandizement, and to abuse the very respectable journalistic position you now hold? ...Especially when one compares your work with his. Sheesh. There IS no comparison! My advice, don't lend him validity with your presence.

Richard Aberdeen · 1 year ago

Response to Robert Greenwald preparing to appear on Colbert...

If you rely on the obvious facts of history, that supply-side economics has never worked and, has always caused recession or depression (hint, there were two recessions under Reagan and more economic bad times under Bush Senior, a result of Regan policies), then you can't go wrong. Colbert might point out that things were pretty bad under Carter, but you can counter with the historically obvious, that Carter inherited the economic downside of the Vietnam War, which is entirely true and unlike Reagan, he did not have eight years to correct the mess. If you study Reagan's presidency carefully, you will find that the first four years were better economically than the second four years for the average American; improvement during the first 4 being largely a result of the policies of Carter, not Reagan. Bush Senior's time in office was an economic disaster, which was not the fault of Bush Senior but rather, very clearly the result of Reagan's policies, including significant unbridled borrowing to build up the MX-missile and "Star Wars" arsenal, thus he managed to leave us with the largest deficit in American history (prior to Junior) and not surprisingly, it lead to significant economic downturn under Bush Senior.

The first 4 years of any president's policies almost never determine what is happening at the economic moment, while the economy under a president's second term can be significantly effected by what his policies were during his first term. This is something that the American media and American economists in general, including recent noble prize winner Paul Krugman, have long failed to point out very clearly to the American people. Thus, hard-working and sincere but poorly educated Americans, continue to swallow the Fox News complete historic lie, that Reagan was a good president because the economy was good under Reagan (which is not even true; poverty grew significantly under Reagan and there were two recessions, including the severe 1987 recession towards the end of Reagan's two terms and thus, a definitive indicator that his "supply-side" policies were very bad for the economy). Krugman is better than most, but he continues to display a rather naive belief in the so-called "free" market system, which unless wisely regulated, will always send the majority of people spiraling down into poverty.

John Steinbeck was very right, that unbridled capitalism, left unregulated, eventually leads to poverty, anarchy and revolution. And, as Steinbeck clearly illustrated in The Grapes of Wrath, historically the rich man eventually ends up shooting his own children and grandchildren in the head, by lowering wages and raising prices until the poor man can no longer afford to purchase the rich man's products and services. And thus, the poor man eventually rises up and takes the rich man's stuff for himself; meanwhile as he awaits the certain coming revolt, the worth of the rich man's "stuff" continues to tumble into economic oblivion. (Thus the famous Woody Guthrie, line "the peaches are rotting".)

The rich man is dependent on the poor man being able to purchase goods and services, in order for the rich man to remain rich. At the base of capitalism remains an extremely illogical and misguided theory, that unbridled greed will ultimately produce what is best for the "common good". That is like saying, there is no reason for morality and ethics to either exist or be taught in our universities and, like saying that if you drill for oil long and hard and deep enough, eventually clean water and air will be the result (which might actually be true, but only if we run out of oil).

It would appear that Jesus and the authors of the Bible were right all along, while modern progressives are still mainly pissing in the dark. Somehow, modern science and education seems to have overlooked the historically obvious, that war and violence are a result of what is inside human beings; human beings at our base core, are selfish and greedy far beyond any necessity of either survival or reproduction and thus, economic markets need to be wisely regulated. Go figure...

There is of course, a significant difference between unbridled regulation, which many Democrats and progressives are good at promoting and, wise regulation that actually helps the poor man be less poor. And, actually ensures that the poor receive a certain value for their hard-earned dollars, rather than tainted meat, bogus medicine and healthcare that doesn't cover health once expensive diseases become a liability to the insurance company, while still being fair enough to encourage the rich man to produce necessary jobs, goods and services.

Unbridled de-regulation and unbridled regulation are neither one, a very good or productive idea. Maybe you can tell Colbert that and see what he says. If I was him, I would point out that such a theory would likely manage to piss off pretty-much everybody, which is what is very wrong in modern-day American media. The pundits and kings of modern-day media don't really know what is either true or best for the common good and thus, they are just dividing us and leading us down the road towards historical oblivion.


Thank You
Sincerely,
Richard Aberdeen
Freedom Tracks Records
richard@freedomtracks.com
www.FreedomTracks.com

Nancy · 1 year ago

Keep in mind that Stephen is a Democrat in sheep's clothing. He is on your side.

George · 1 year ago

My suggestion regarding the Colbert show is simple: take a chill pill. It's a comedy show.

Pat S. · 1 year ago

You might want to try this - if he asks you a question like the "who hates..." question he asked last time, ask him something back.

Emotionally charged words like, "hate", "contempt", "terrorist", things of that nature will not catch you off guard if you turn it back on him by saying something like "what makes you think either of us hates the US?" or to simply answer with "I think we both love the US. Do you have a problem with that?"

Basically, anytime he catches you off-guard, turn the question back on him.

Good Luck & HAVE FUN!!

Pamela Miller · 1 year ago

I served in the Navy for 4 years during the Viet Nam War as a flight simulator operator. In boot camp we were taught that if you ever became a prisoner of war that it was your DUTY to escape in any way you could so that you could return to active engagement with the enemy.

McCain should have done this when he had the opportunity to be released. It was not his choice to say no, it was his duty to return to active duty as soon as he could.

As an officer and especially a pilot he knew this yet did not do so and that was against all military training and duty to serve.

He chose to be a martyr insted and then became a "hero" to many.

The truth is he displayed his usual arrogance/ignorance of duty and did his own thing.

If Colbert gets down and dirty, as he has a habit of doing, this may be of interest.

Good luck!

Pam

ken Bley · 1 year ago

Final suggestion before searching for a life:

Place a poster of Smokey the Bear between you and Colbert.

Doug · 1 year ago

Exploit his fear of bears.

snesich · 1 year ago

Robert: Ask the following question: "Stephen, are you really a right-wing sleaze monger or do you just play one on TV?"

Or:
"Stephen, are you doing a satire on right-wing nuts or do you really believe all of this gasbag stuff?"

snesich · 1 year ago

And here's one more that I found out about, because my spouse is a Dartmouth alum, and there was a story about this in a recent alumni publication:
"Stephen, did you really help tear down the "Shantytown" South Africa exhibits on the Dartmouth campus, with a bunch of frat boys, or is that just a vicious, unfounded rumor?"

working · 1 year ago

Ask him if he thinks dead mooose turds might be turned in to an alternative energy source.

Darren Murtha · 1 year ago

If you want to have a successful interview, concentrate on getting your point across, and if you fall in a comedy trap set by Colbert, get up quickly and return to making your point- don't get off the subject....if you want to see someone outwit Colbert, look up the Simon Schama interview...

Rose · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert if he thinks that McCain would continue the construction of the Nafta superhighway that is being built by Bush right now, and does he think that its a good idea.

Kimberly Kent · 1 year ago

I agree with Michelle in a previous post...ask him why McCain chose Palin and not Colbert? Then offer him a starring role in your next film.

David · 1 year ago

Trying to best Colbert with logic just gets you bogged down, because that's not what the right wing talk show host works on. They work on calling shotgun on "American" values. That's why his first question last time was so effective and funny. You have to be just as funny and just as quick to call shotgun on values (it's hard when he gets the first chance to speak). I would use every chance you get to accuse Bush and McCain of doing all the things right wingers hate, true or not. For example:

Q: "Who hates America more, you or Michael Moore?"
A: "You know, I get that question a lot. And I'm not in competition with Michael Moore, we are both working as hard as we can to expose the republicans' tax-and-spend agenda."

That answer works because it is unexpected, and thus funny, and gets the point you want out fast so you can't be interrupted. It can also be defended if he presses by saying he wants to tax our middle class and spend it on the war (the former not being exactly true, but Obama proposes to cut taxes for the middle class, so you can defend it in a sense.. truth isn't the point on Colbert).

Q: "How does it feel to be part of the Liberal Hollywood Elite?"
A: "It's okay... I'm trying to work my way up to the Texas Oil Elite. Someday I might even make it to the Arizona elite, but I'm still working on house number 2 for now."

It's this type of answer that will get laughs and that will match Colbert step for step.

In terms of what question to expect, I wouldn't be surprised to hear:

Q: "Last time we spoke, you told me you were trying to destroy America.. what went wrong?"

Julie Dewey · 1 year ago

Answer a question with a question. Put the ball in his court. e.g., who hates America more question - what gave you that idea? Your films are backed up with documented proof. Maybe he will bring up Ayres, justify McCain/Palin's allegations.

Elizabeth · 1 year ago

Ask him if he thinks Sarah Palin is actually the reincarnation of Joe McCarthy. Read a few things from his book and ask him about them. There's plenty there to challenge. Or appeal to his ego and ask if he'd like to be in your next video for Obama.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

He might ask, "Who do you hate more, Sarah Palin or Jesus?"

larry · 1 year ago

The basic overall strategy is to agree with him and raise him one. Watch out for charges of ageism, that you're somehow attacking the old and the infirm. Have some come-backers ready. Steal his thunder. Come out like a blazing ageist. Outflank him on the right. Also on McCain and Palin as hate-mongers, he might ask something like, "What's wrong with a little hate now and then?." "Are you just another one of those lovey-dovey liberals who think we should all hold hands and sing Kumbaya? Hate makes the world go round." Agree with him, but tell him that your argument with McCain and Palin is not that they hate but that they don't know how to do it artfully. Give outlandish examples of creative and artful lying and hatred that are absolutely ludicrous. Don't try to argue your case. Agree with him, make your case obliquely by taking his points and carrying them to an even more extreme position. If he should really get on a roll against you, you can always try bringing him to a screeching halt with: "Mr. Colbert...Have you no shame?"

ncooty · 1 year ago

Three keys: 1) whittle your key points down to 2-sentence messages (Stephen won't give you more than that), 2) learn the art of the pivot: turn every answer back toward the 2 or 3 key points you want to make (KNOW YOUR KEY MESSAGES), 3) don't try to out-Colbert Colbert (don't try to out-do him or get caught up in his jokes; it never works).

A potential key point: you might point out that McCain seems to see every foreign policy issue as a military problem with a military solution (e.g., Iraq, Iran, Georgia, Afghanistan, Sudan, etc.). Obama sees a military component in some solutions, but - as a statesman should - he focuses more heavily on the economic, political, cultural, and regional elements of foreign policy issues. McCain has a military hammer and sees everything as a nail; Obama has a larger diplomatic toolbox. (You could use that in response to any remarks about Obama not referring to The Surge as a success - because the two candidates view success differently.)

Hugh · 1 year ago

You can not nail Stephen. He is un-nailable. However, I do have something you can do:

YOU: "It's simple, Stephen - Obama's healthcare plan covers every American for nail holes. McCain's does not. And after two visits to this show..."

Ed Hannibal · 1 year ago

HE"S AN ACTOR PLAYING A PART ERGO NOBODY NAILS HIM.
SO PLAY HIM AT FACE VALUE . OFFER HIM A SERIES OF POSITIONS IN THE OBAMA ADMINISTRATION!
START WITH PRESS SECRETARY< FOLLOW WITH HEAD OF FCC (TO POLICE TRUTHINESS IN NEWS AND ADVERTISING); AMBASSADOR TO GUANTANAMO, ETC,ETC, ETC.
NO MATTER WHAT HE SAYS TO GOAD YOU, HAVE A JOB TO OFFER HIM. HE'LL GO WITH IT.

Lon Gonzalez · 1 year ago

Since he graced the cover of Esquire recently, and the issue focused on the victimization of the American white male, ask him why he appeared without his pants on the cover, and subjected us to his scrawny, pasty legs.

Joyce · 1 year ago

Laugh a lot and enjoy, like the rest of us.

Paul · 1 year ago

Just laugh at his outrageous questions. It will give you an opportunity to defuse and think of something to say. It is not the questions that he has canned that are dangerous, it is his incredibly quick response to his victims answers that are the hottest things to handle.

Steve White · 1 year ago

Would you please ask Colbert if he knows that Obama is Biracial and not African American and if he knows that the name of the first Interracially Married Independent Female Presidential Candidate in this Election is?. Her name is Ruth Bryant White.

JohnG · 1 year ago

1. Whatever he asks you...ignore...and answer with a question and answer to a point you want to make...ya know like Silly Sarah does.

2. Ask him how he thinks Spiderman would save the economy.

Dave Comstock · 1 year ago

Ask him, "If the #1 threat to America is bears, then shouldn't we all unite against Papa Bear? If Bill O'Reilly wasn't the #1 threat to America, wouldn't his nickname be...oh, I don't know...Papa Hamster?"

Olivia · 1 year ago

I'd really like to ask this directly to McCain and Palin and require a 'yes' or 'no' answer. "Do you believe that Barak Obama is a terrorist?" I want to see them answer this on camera. I'm sure Palin would say "I don't know for sure." McCain would probably be honest and say "No." His way of avoid the denial of Obama being a Muslim was to say that he was a family man. That just verifies how out of touch McCain has become. Palin was never in touch.

Jaybee · 1 year ago

I think he might ask something along the lines of why you hate John McCain, or b/c you criticize McCain, do you hate all American heroes? something like that.
He might ask if you will be sorry after Obama becomes president and ends up destroying the world, or some such thing.

I don't have any useful advice. If I were ever in such a position I would succumb to the humor and end up saying the worst things, things that would sound just awful out of (or even in) context.
Just take a page from Palin and deflect, dodge, and ... diatribe?
Don't answer his questions directly, just "stay on message."

Rhubarb Koznowski · 1 year ago

My god, you people are sounding like a bunch of Republicans. I never knew how easy it is to push a lot of people's buttons around here. Chill!

Robert, you asked for advice. Here it is:
Quit taking yourself so damn serious!

You go on the COMEDY channel and expect some sort of rational dialogue? You act hurt and overwhelmed by Colbert's MOCK interview? That is exactly the sort of response I would expect from Palin or McCain, but your reaction and despair is laughable. What buffoonery! Now you have got me wondering...were you kidding when you started this thread? If so, it is a masterful piece of political humor. If not, then you have been hosed.
Relax and enjoy yourself tomorrow night...

Lynn · 1 year ago

Ask Steven if he wants to be in one of your movies

Linda · 1 year ago

I like the idea of offering him a job in the next administration to divert his attention. Maybe you could throw in the idea that he could be a whistle blower and star in your next film.

Mary Jo · 1 year ago

Distract him like Jane Fonda did, sit on his lap and give him a kiss!

That would catch him totally of gaurd and would be hilarious!

Have a great time, in this trouble times he give us a chance to laugh at the ridiculous Right!

Barb · 1 year ago

I like David's idea of having some knock you socks off funny statements that make a point but are histerical.
In response to his question last time, Who hates America more?" I think saying, "Neither of us hate America, we just can't stand what Bush and the Republicans have done to the country in the last 8 years." "I mean it takes some royal arrogance to screw up the economy, the environment, education, AND get us into a trumped up war all in eight years."

sid dog · 1 year ago

What would a victory look like in Iraq, and could it take less than 100 years and another trillion dollars. If taxes are so bad how could we afford more this spending.

Janis · 1 year ago

Answers: I can't speak for __ but I know that (fill in your 1-2 sentence point,)
Hate questions: This election isn't about chate, it's about the economy, too many wars, and restoring our Constitution. It's too bad when politicians think they can win with hate messages.
Your question for Colbert: Don't ask questions or anser them, just make your points--short but clear.

Will · 1 year ago

Dear Robert, I'd say ask him about what he disagrees with (and why) about your "John McCain's Temper is a National Security Problem", because you've made some great points with that video!

sarah · 1 year ago

In the movie "Iraq for Sale," an American military man described that he was "heartbroken" when he arrived at Abu Graib and saw the U.S behavior toward Muslims. You can explain WHY you are disillusioned with the farce of democracy and the lies of the machine. see also corporations.com

mary · 1 year ago

Ask him

"Who Is The Real Stephen Colbert?"

Purple Girl · 1 year ago

Ask Stephen if he Knows What is inscribed On Our Lady Liberty.Then ask Him how that equates to John McCains "Not like Us" Rhetoric against Sen Obama.
Frankly,McCain reveals His Utter lack of Knowledge about (Or Commitment to) what this Country Stands for, every time he speaks those words or makes Such Innuendos.

cphvoice · 1 year ago

Dear Robert, thanks for your mail. Just be yourself, be in the moment and be present. And if you feel u need more:

http://themediainterview.com/category/tips-for-...

and here is something pulled from the net for you.....remember, be in the moment and be present.

http://ezinearticles.com/?Interviews---Five-Tip...

Enjoy the process and own your own direct focus.

Annarose · 1 year ago

Actually, the best guests on Colbert speak their own truth clearly and boldly. He's the comic. You just need to speak from the heart. In doing so, you might even be able to render him speechless. It doesn't happen often, but it happens once in awhile.

Miguel Delgado · 1 year ago

Just be yourself and remember you are the coolest cat around...You have over a million supporters who have your back.

Cincinnati Kid · 1 year ago

Attack the attack on Acorn. Their response has not been quick or particularly strong but I'm surprised and disappointed by the time CNN has devoted to this, getting as bad as Fox?! ---- What are the facts: can Acorn prove through phone records, certified mail, etc., more or less, that they did contact the states and try to clean this mess up? --- Have they turned over some names of their people that have done badly? ---- I suspect the GOP planted some bad people with them to insure this October surprise!? ----- But at the worst let's look at the famous Rolling Stone article on Ohio 2004, well documented. Mention it and ask people to see for themselves. ---- Like the phony terror threat NE of Cincinnati, obviously one of the worst and most blantant attempts to steal Kerry votes and give thousands to Bush!!! ----- I think it was one of the most unique and laughable voter fraud's in US history! -- --- How about current GOP BS going on? Wisconsin phony ballots sent out to Democratic areas? How about breaking federal law all over the US which states that no one can be purged in the last 90 days!? --- How about GOP sending out poorly copied ballots in Ohio, designed BY THEM when in power, and then trying to blame Dem's for not accepting them!! [ But the GOP Ohio Supreme Ct. did naturally agree with them?!? ] -- Love your work, keep it up!

felipe · 1 year ago

most likely:
McCain's you tube problem just became a nightmare.
...and he might pop the hate america thing again.
Let them know that you don't have to hate your own country to be against injustice & crooked politics. And to want to inform people on the reality of issues.
Not everyone needs to be funny, indirect or make a mockery about serious issues like comedy central or the Colbert report...
you go man! whatever you do, if you get caught off guard DON'T LET IT SHOW!

Robin Miller · 1 year ago

Pull a Palin and don't answer the question, appeal to his ego and tell him what a great show he has and how Don Rickels robbed him of his Emmy, then go in for the kill.

Runaway Serfer · 1 year ago

You're a guest on his show, so be courteous and don't focus on "nailing" him. Instead, focus on getting your main point across, acting like the "straight guy" your are in this comedy routine -- and mention your website/blog often!

Remember that he's not really a rightwing blowhard. You "win" by getting your points across, and he "wins" by making the audience laugh. The only liberals who look bad on his show are the ones who lack a sense of humor.

Al · 1 year ago

Robert,

Why don't YOU ask him who loves America most, HIM or Sarah Palin?

David Hirning · 1 year ago

Ask him, "Does it bother you that your show makes fun of the system, the news, and often stretches/blurs the truth for comic effect, yet you are looked upon as a major news source by the 18-to-35 demographic?"

Jake · 1 year ago

Pull a Palin! no matter what he ask, answer with whatever you want to say or decide you want to talk about and have fun with it!

Ali · 1 year ago

I honestly don't know what you're worried about. Colbert isn't really against you. He pretends to be a right-wing moron as a way of mocking right-wing morons. You don't need to "nail" Colbert, just go on and be prepared to talk about your video. The main point of doing the interview is to draw attention to your videos so more people see them. Just relax!

Yousa Douchbag · 1 year ago

Papa Bear commented 32 minutes ago:
"Nice one Yousa. Did you cut and paste that from the Fox News "Talking Points" section.

1. Obama never said he'd reduce taxes on 95% of Americans. He said he wouldn't raise taxes on 95% of Americans.

2. How can the tax breaks on these "small business" eliminate jobs the way they have been over the past 8 years.

3. As opposed to the checks and balances in the Bush administration over the past 8 years? hello pot, I'm the kettle.

4. Rhetorical, and blatantly stupid.

5. Any plan is better than the current non-plan.

6. Same place we're financing things now. Money borrowed from foreign governments that have been reponsibly run over the past 8 years. OR maybe we could use Iraqi Oil to pay for it like we were promised.

(Final un-numbered paragraph)
Xanadu was a masterpiece. Like your post.

Keep trying Yousa... bottom line is... in November YOU LOSE! hahahaha"

1. First off, Papa Bear, you're quoting Obama's LATEST incarnation of his 95% plan. It's called "nuancing," just like his 16 months to get out of Iraq plan.

2. Check the record...MILLIONS of jobs have been created in the last 7 years...the liberal take on this has been that these new jobs just aren't good enough...too many hamburger flipping jobs and not enough green jobs or some-such nonsense. You're as bad a Greenwald...just ignore facts and make movies that would make German WWII propogandists proud.

3. You MADE my point, you douche...just as a total GOP government was bad, so, too, would be a total democrat government. You must be one of those infamous Obama surrogates as you're really good at lumping McCain to Bush, even though McCain has opposed much of the Bush Doctorine.

4. So stupid all you could do was call it stupid, right?

5. No, "any plan" is NOT better than what you describe being a "non plan." Again, you're comparing Obama's Robin Hood tax plan to Bush, not McCain.

6. Dude, the Iraqi oil surplus is about $80 billion. Just Obama's "investment" in alternative energy is almost double that--you'll need a LOT more than Iraqi oil revenues to cover his new spending plans.

7. Since YOU brought up oil, Heaven forbid we utilize DOMESTIC sources of energy, until our $150 Billion "investment" discovers a way to power our cars with wind, right? Let's just keep sending our money to Iran and Venezuela.

Bev · 1 year ago

Just fasten your seat belt and enjoy the ride. In the unlikely event you get a chance to ask a question, ask him what McCain/Palin mean when they say we're going to win in Iraq, since we don't know the objective for being there in the first place. This should give him an opportunity to do some interesting deconstruction of the Iraq project.

E Frances · 1 year ago

He will ask you: do you think McCain will be a great President or the greatest President? He will ask: why is John Lewis being so mean to McCain and trashing him and injecting race into the campaign? Is John Lewis also a secret Moslem, like Obama? (He will definitely mention this claim, as he does in two or three shows a week.) He will bring up Ayres, maybe asking if you have been pal-ing around with him? The advice that said go with him and raise him one should work -- McCain will be a STUPENDOUS President (of the Alaska Chamber of Commerce or whatever job Palin can open up for him.

But remember Stephen may have spies reading your blog -- maybe he'll ask you about that!!

cecelia baldwin · 1 year ago

Just laugh when the questions are outrageous. Colbert's method (as a leftist) is to make the right look ridiculous through these outrageous questions/accusations - make it look even more ridiculous through your "joining in" with the ridicule or a simple 'oh noooo' while laughing. You don't have to answer. It's taken me a while to get used to him. If you can get in some points that's great but just enjoy the "ridiculous" that he comes up with. It's a comedy show and you are the straight man (as are all guests).

Good luck! Have fun!! (really, have fun!)

dave · 1 year ago

Look, this is a comedy show - a satire, and it is very smart. He is on your side by parodying the right. The fact that you want to nail him worries me that you don't get it. Someone who goes on there to attack Colbert will come off very badly. Just be yourself, and even a bit self-effacing and Colbert will do the work for you.

If you get self-righteous on there, you are going to look like an idiot.

yolanda twyman · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert if he knows why Mr. McCain has kept his speech to Acorn two years ago so quiet. At that time he had glowing comments about that organization but now he and the governor have nothing but yucky things to say! Really, really yucky things.

Pat S. · 1 year ago

By the way, seeing as how so many republican's seem to be frothing at the mouth, you might want to have a body guard or two, as well as a sharp-shooter along just in case someone in the audience gets too excited...

Scary times...

Richard Roberts · 1 year ago

I didn't mean to be "anonymous"--I authored the last post

Sabra · 1 year ago

Relax, from information I have recieved from BNF,there is No Hate occuring.Educating only.BNF doesn't HATE McCain, or anyone.BNF informs, NO lies, just truth.Mike Moore doesn't hate America, he too informs.The truth needs disclosing.Be proud that you can and are.Use Palin tactics, ignore the question and talk about the truth as you see it.Throw the question back.Laugh alot at attempts to condem BNF. Be real, it is what I see on BNF, so this should be a piece of cake. Enjoy the opportunity to advertise BNF as much as possible,repeat at every chance the web address.We the people are not stupid, and need and deserve BNF to inform the ignorant that there is a truth that matters.Allow no fear,fear is an illusion that we choose to let in. GO GET EM!!!

Wynn Ray · 1 year ago

A Question:
George W. Bush,
Bad President, or worst president ever?

Me · 1 year ago

I can see why you'd like to win a debate with him, but Colbert isn't a conservative. He's very Liberal and enjoys convincing people otherwise.

Jen · 1 year ago

When Stephen once again asks you why you hate America, tell him that you don't want to talk about that, that you want to talk about MAVERICKS! Then talk about P.O.W.s! Then wink, and smile glowingly. No, wait. Glow smilingly. No, wait. Tell him that you just want to talk directly to the American people, turn to the camera, and wink. Then smile. Then glow. You'll have a great time, you betcha!

And, by the way, Robert, why DO you hate America?

Marc · 1 year ago

It's a waste of time to attempt to guess beforehand what aspect of your message Colbert will target. And for the most part, it's a waste of time to attempt to deliver a coherent message to the audience in spite of Colvert's need to surprise and entertain the audience. My suggestion would be to take a more jiujitsu approach. Don't get stuck in explaining or defending some point. Back up and or agree or just stare blankly at him at the beginning until you see what he's focusing on rather than letting him go after what you're focusing on. Then exaggerate what he's focusing on, cartoon it, and don't worry about how that might relate to your work. Colbert appreciates your work or he wouldn't invite you to appear on his program. But once you're on the program, he's testing your personal flexibility and humor, not the validity of your message. Don't explain, don't defend, just play with him, dance with him, enjoy him and yourself in an ad lib way for a few moments. Good luck!

igorvitch · 1 year ago

If a really tough question arises, ask if he and you can have a secret meeting with the Keating 5 and Charles Keating to come up with and answer and a plan.

Breanna VanDerWege · 1 year ago

I suggest asking him why he walks over to the guest insted of having them come out. I know it doesn't have anything to do with why you are there but it might through him off and make you look more likeable to the audience.

ArmageddonKitten · 1 year ago

Please understand: Colbert doesn't really care about much, he's only there to get a laugh and come out on top. (Sort of like a Bill O'Rilley with an even worse sense of humor.) He'll do whatever it takes to get a laugh for himself at your expense.

While The Daily Show is a decent piece of comedic journalism (I'm sorry, I just can't rate it as pure comedy), Colbert is a "journalistic-sounding" comedy show.

I can't give any actual questions because I just can't think like that man does. My husband finds him amusing, but I find Colbert to be grating. Doesn't matter what topic it is... Colbert just doesn't have the funny.

The question to answer is:

What would Colbert do to humiliate Greenwald in order to garner laughs?

If you can answer that one, the next question is:

What zingers can you turn around on him?


Good luck.
You'll need it.

Margaret · 1 year ago

Robert, You need to be able to laugh. Laugh at and with Stephen! He doesnt host a debate show. He will try hard to crack you but just keep it cool and remember to get a few talking points in. And laugh.
If he asks you the same question just laugh and say you love America. It was founded on dissent. You are a patriot and a maverick.

Georgie Lynch · 1 year ago

Say: We don't hate AMerica, we hate the guys who have humiliated Anerica with their stupidity.

Yousa Douchebag · 1 year ago

.

Ian C. Cree wrote: Ayres had founded the Weatherman group to protest the Vietnam war 40 years before, a war which the USA could never win, since North Vietnam was supported by the Soviet Union which also had the Atom bomb. The group blew up a number of
structures and public buildings around 40 years ago as part of their protest. The majority of Americans joined the protest later and brought this deadly and fruitless war to an end. Senator Obama had no control over the appointment of the Board Members and no control over Ayre's remote past. The New York Times called the accusation "ridiculous". However, the pitbull continues to mud sling the Senator."

One of the "public buildings" Ayers was responsible for bombing was the Pentagon. Yes, this country needs more people like Bill Ayers....

.

igorvitch · 1 year ago

Ask him if he knows any older women who can't trust Obama because they think he's an Arab?

ArmageddonKitten · 1 year ago

P.S. Sabra's post makes a lot of sense. "At bravenewfilms.org, we try to emphasize the truth..."
Hey, even if you get cut off, you've made a positive statement about yourself and your films.

igorvitch · 1 year ago

Ask him you and Phil Gramms can get together to take back the mother of all deregulation bills Gramms slipped in as an ammendment to a budget agreement between Republicans and Democrats at the end of 1999.

elizabeth · 1 year ago

Ask: Is it true that the Sarah Palin on Saturday Night Live really is Sarah Palin, not Tina Fey? And that the tapes we're watching are her secret audition tapes that she made last year when she had tired of being Gov. of Alaska and was looking for a new job. (or something like that) And that Tina Fey really doesn't exist, that the person who says she's Tina Fey is really Sarah Palin?
Just show Steven that you can be just as twisted as he is. You might even suggest that you agreed to do his show to help him win his Emmy or whatever it is he's always whining about.
Which makes me wonder if you should ask if Phil Graham is right. ARE we a nation of Cobert imitators or are we a nation of whiners?

Sofedup · 1 year ago

In answer to his first question " Who hates America more Michal Moore or you?" you should have told neither of you hate America,if you hated it you wouldn't be trying to stop all of the corruption going on and fighting the fight you're fighting.
Ask him if he knows how many presidential candidates are on the ballot this election? ( the answer is 13) So why all the focus on two?
Ask him why McCain voted with bush90% of the time.
Ask him why McCain continuously votes against veterans benefits almost 100% of the time
Ask him why McCain Ad bashing Obama for having the Cohones to speak about over the Afghan massacres makes him a dishonorable person?
Ask Him why Ralph Nader and Cynthia McKinney and Others aren't allowed in on the democratic and republican party's debates. ( see opendebates.org)
Ask him why Obama and McCain are virtually both the same on foreign Policy and regime change?
The spinelessness of our democratic representatives save people like you and Dennis Kucinch, is disgusting.

What's he going to ask you? Please. You're a politician you're supposed to have people going over every possibility as well you're supposed to supply him with a list of things specifically not to ask you. Why are you surcoming to this Network media exploitation in the first place if you don't think you can handle it. You must be nervous, but as a previous blog poster recommended , STAY ON MESSAGE if you have one to convey, do not let him make light of the millions of people who have lost their lives by the republican Nightmares in office right now for their plan of global domination and to rob the American taxpayers of everything they worked so hard for. just to bail out the ones who got them in the mess their in in the first place, Make sure you bring up the deregulation frenzy in Washington over the last 8 years that has led to the market crisis and foreclosures etc... If you let him take control and guide you in a disastrous Interview it's as much an attribute of you inability to do you job as it is his ability to do his.
People that make light of the crimes the Bush administration has committed and furthermore make a profit from it , IMHO are not worth the time.
Ask him (Steven Colbert) how he sleeps at night knowing his jokes about support of the crimes of the shrubs administration and way of thinking have served to make him a wealthy man. Sure the irony is supposed to be comical but personally I don't like his show period nor do I enjoy his sticking up for the Neocon agenda jokingly or not, it's not a laughing matter is it?
Tell him he should stick with doing cartoon voices on Adult Swim.

Megan Taylor · 1 year ago

No one beats Colbert. Just resign yourself to being humiliated like everyone else. And remember, he probably really likes you. Keep your sense of humor and good luck.

igorvitch · 1 year ago

Ask him if he personally knows any of the nut cakes present at a McCain rally in Minnesota who screamed to "behead Obama"? And would he participate?

igorvitch · 1 year ago

Ask him if any of the 800,000 unemployed Americans are expecting golden parachutes.

Marv Minoff · 1 year ago

Sarah Palin could be the first female President.
Won't that be great?

igorvitch · 1 year ago

Ask him if he has an offshore tax have.

joseph p bell · 1 year ago

Dear Mr. Greenwald:I rank Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert as my 2 life savers :I am 74 ,a navy vet 1952-1956 ; I would appreciate it if you could "stun " him with "Did the 911 Commission coverup for GWB and his Nazi party .Co;bert may not be aware of Prescott Bush's Nazi collaboration in 1940's and GHWB taking up his fathers ways after starting with CIA ,Ambassador to China .Bill Maher and my 2 beautiful friends above still believe that 19 Arabs attacked this country ... Bull sheet 2 ellis st woburn ma 01801 781-932-1640

Bill Josephs · 1 year ago

LIGHTEN UP!

Colbert plays a conservative character. He is just as disgusted with things as you are.

Ruth Walker · 1 year ago

Ask Stephen what group of voters he thinks John McCain's statements (quoted below) were planned to appeal to? [From the chapter called “Straight Talk” in his book (with Mark Salter), Worth the Fighting For: A Memoir (Random House 2002)]

p. 373: “I didn’t decide to run for President to start a national crusade for the political reforms I believed in or to run a campaign as if it were some grand act of patriotism. In truth, I wanted to be president because it had become my ambition to be President.”



p. 376: “My public service had surely not been above reproach.”



p.377: “Lest anyone think my positions were brave, if self-defeating, honesty obliges me to note that every poll my campaign conducted (and we took as many as we could afford) found greater support for paying down the debt than cutting taxes for upper-bracket incomes, among Republican voters as well as Democrats and independents.”



p. 383: “But I could tell from the desperate looks of my staff that we had an enormous problem. And that it could come down to lying or losing. I chose lying.”


Ask if Stephen thinks either Fox News or Weekly Standard will ever reform, as several years ago one of their guys admitted what they do:

rightweb.irc-online.org



When asked why media outlets like Weekly Standard and Fox News Channel have become so popular, Matt Labash, a Weekly Standard senior writer, responded: "Because they feed the rage. We bring pain to the liberal media ... The conservative media likes to rap the liberal media on the knuckles for not being objective ... It's a great way to have your cake and eat it too. Criticize other people for not being objective. Be as subjective as you want. It's a great little racket" ("Interview with Matt Labash," JournalismJobs.com, May 2003).

igorvitch · 1 year ago

Ask him if we should have a Civil War again with Todd Palin's friends in the Alaskan Independence Party, who want to secede from the United States? Follow up: is secession an act of treason?

calita · 1 year ago

You DO realize that Colbert is foremost a satirist, don't you? He can only "nail" you if you take yourself too seriously. You've gotten great advice on this thread: expect questions about your more controversial films, (McCain's medical records, McCain's mansions &tc;) prepare some quick repartee and some bullet points, laugh with him and have fun. Check out Colbert's roast of President Bush and the media: video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-869183917758574879. Good luck and thanks for all you do.

Nancy · 1 year ago

Just be yourself and answer the questions honestly. Steven Cobert is NOT Bill O'Rielly. He's a comedian. Give him funny answers and make him laugh.

Bernard Gerber · 1 year ago

Werll Robert, If you watched Palin and/or McCain recent presentations on CNN, it is obvious that they have several smear items as well as trying to steal Obama's Platform by outdoing it.

The Bill Ayres relationship falls into the first category as does blabbing on and on about Obama's inexperience. And how can McCain talk about inexperience when he hand-picked Mrs. Palin? Should he become incapacitated, Mrs. Palin would become our president! A shameful legacy...

In view of the number of estimated electoral votes that Sen. Obama has in the CNN polls, serve to indicate that these areas were answered most satisfactorily by Sen. Obama.

Three other issues:
(1) The War. Why Iraq? Contrary to the statements of the President, sixteen of our US Intelligence Agencies had no evidence Iraq had: A) Weapons of Mass Destruction; B) Ties to Osama Bin Laden. The intelligence reports, as stated in testimony before Congress, were edited by the Bush Administration. (See Congressional Record)
He always refers to Gen Petraeus in talking about the success there. Gen Petraeus has said that he would prefer not being referred to by Sen. McCain and disagrees with this Senator on many points.
(2) In an effort to gain more public support, Sen. MeCain is adopting an even more "liberal" platform than Sen Obama's.

(3)Sen McCain chastises the present Administration -without mentioning President Bush by name.

McCain vows to do "things" differently. It must be continuously pointed out that more than 90% of McCain's votes in the senate have been in support of whatever the Bush Administration wanted."Some Maverick!"

Best of Luck

Bernie

Dr. John R. M9ichel · 1 year ago

#1 Question??? Who The Homeless Are & Why?
There Are A Majority Of Americans Who Are Dis-
custed With "White Collar Crime" Jail No Bail
For:- Treason, Genocide, Fraud & Mis-Appropiation Of America's * $Funds & People! ***

They ALL Pledged To Uphold The Constitution & From "The Truth- They Can Run; But They Can't Hide! From The "Homeless = Will Come :- The Soul-
ution - To Clean - Up The Pollution!

Our Most Precious Resource :- Our Children!

They Deserve - America's "Positive Technologies
Ans "Yuppies Out Of The RAT RACE & Join The HUMAN RACE = God IS LOVE NOT HATE!

Looking Forward To "What WE CAN Create - Once We
Get Past THE HATE!!!

Sincerely, Dr. John R. Michel, Americorps = Food Not Bombs =

Walter Grinspan · 1 year ago

John, you say that you "will take care of the veterans". Funny that you say that, in light of the fact that almost all of your votes involving veterans and servicemen has been a no vote, or you didn't bother to vote. What vogte have you made taht improves the lot of those men and woman who you say are fighting for America. Don't you think you should have voted to give them all the benefits you got as a veteran...and why did you not vote for the Iraq educational benefits bill. And why didn't you vote to override the Bush veto...and can't you teach your wife to understand what stress syndrome is from being assigned to Iraq. Stand up the vets, John, just like the country stood up for you when you came home from Viet Nam. Short memory, McCain, right????

Enlightened Muse · 1 year ago

I say answer those kinds of questions with another question or a third option yet completely truthful answer. For example: Who hates America more? Surely, you meant to ask, Bin Laden, didn't you?

You could also mention (to stir up conversation) that you think the reason why McCain hasn't done more to criticize Obama about his alleged association with Ayers (and has left this to his right-hand) is because McCain wants to keep the Keating Five scandal from blowing up in his face.

Or mention other errors McCain has blurted out (to complement Colbert's recent show) like calling Americans "prisoners" by mistake - although the irony is that with this current administration many citizens do feel backed into a wall and are imprisoned by failed Republican policies.

Then just be honest about your fears of what America will be like if we get McSame in the White House for another 4 years. I know it scares me to pieces!

Regarding McCain, I'm thinking of the very end of that Hall & Oates song "your out of touch, I'm out of time..."

rick · 1 year ago

Ask him exactly how many shipments of Colbert Formula 401 were sent to the Alaska Governors mansion in the past 18 months.

Audrey Hennefer · 1 year ago

Robert,

Please ask Stephen who he's going to vote for.

igorvitch · 1 year ago

Point at him from time to time and with disdain say: "That one (and add whatever is appropriate to the moment.)

Keith Lobert · 1 year ago

I hope to see you come through as yourself. Just relax know what you know. Relax, allow yourself to express your concerns from felt caring. You can't control the exagerated egocentric right-wing persona. Stephen remains almost invisible behind his character. I suggest being yourself. Allow criticism to be constructive and instructive if there is merit. Allow your anxiety to find confidence in honesty humor and humility.
Stop preparing, you already are you. Relax and have as much fun as you can.
There are many valid criticsms of Michael that he'd do well to acknowledge and integrate rather than respond with a defensive/offensive posture.

Barbara G · 1 year ago

I was also hoping to go on Colbert as the McCain Granny (McGranny) that I did as a "spoof" of Obama Girl on Youtube & FunnyorDie. It's right up his alley since she professes love for McCain but it's a satire of course. I suggest whatever he brings up, you play as if you mean the opposite (like Oliver Stone did). That's the flavor of the show and as long as you're clear you're being humorous & ironic, the audience will get the real meaning. Pick out some important points you'd like to make in advance & flip it around to find some clever way to satirize your own topic. You'll be great!

nancy · 1 year ago

He's on our side, so roll with it and have fun.

Sheeplike · 1 year ago

.

Gee, Robert, don't you know Colbert is really one of US? I know he ACTS like a conservative but he really likes your movies--well, maybe not Xanadu. I really appreciate you asking my opinion and hope everybody in the choir watches you and Stephen on Thursday! I love Colbert and I love you, too! I also love Obama and Hate McCain!

.

igorvitch · 1 year ago

Ask him if Al Qaeda are sunni, shiite, Democrat or Republican.

Doodah · 1 year ago

You will do well if you ask Colbert some appropriate questions. Some of the ones suggested already are good. In addition, I suggest something along the lines of, "Did you know Sarah Palin roots against your hockey team?" and "Why do you Republicans keep insisting that low IQ is the main pre-requisite for Executive office?" "Aren't Sarah Palin's and John McCain's combined IQ's lower than Obama's? By that measure they're the perfect leadership team to lead us out of the mess left by the last brainiacs you elected! Right?"

Peace,
Mike H

Alex Marshall · 1 year ago

Good luck, Robert! He might ask :

1) Following Sen McCain's selfless example, will you now give up your scurrilous attacks on his character and associates such as W?
2) What are your plans after Sen. McCain's victory on Nov 4, when you will be unemployed?
3) How dare you ask Sen. McCain to reveal his health records? He's an old, sick, man for god's sakes! Have you no shame? Who's next, his mother?
4) You're taking money from a Hungarian, George Soros, to put the son of a Kenyan in the White House. How will you feel when an immigrant steals YOUR job?

Etc, etc... Have fun!

sharon · 1 year ago

I saw that show and laughed out loud when he asked the question. He's very funny when he's not being over the top annoying. I miss This Week in God or whatever it was called. Ask what happened to that routine.

deborah conner · 1 year ago

Breanna said: I suggest asking him why he walks over to the guest insted of having them come out. I know it doesn't have anything to do with why you are there but it might through him off and make you look more likeable to the audience.>>

Breanna! Don't you know? It's just tradition, good manners: no one must stand above Him!

Robert, just focus on how gorgeous He is, and then bring up that you think we need a better than a 1:7 man to women ratio in the bomb shelters. (Precious Bodily Fluids! It's all about that. Remember the blue dress? Does not McSame call his wife the C word?) So relax. Don't fight it. Shut up and LEARN. Colbert, like Popa Bert, KNOWS.

igorvitch · 1 year ago

Ask him when he visits Bagdad whether he'll mingle or ride in a heavily armored humvee and whether he'll wear body armor or bare his chest to the friendly atmosphere there.

Bernie Goodman · 1 year ago

Steven Colbert will ask you if you are still beating your wife as much as you used to do!

Sofedup · 1 year ago

Huge Kudos go to Joseph P. Bell. he must have read Kevin Phillips, "American Dynasty The politics of deceitin the house of Bush" or one of many other books on the subject or lived it.

"joseph p bell commented 8 minutes ago:
Dear Mr. Greenwald:I rank Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert as my 2 life savers :I am 74 ,a navy vet 1952-1956 ; I would appreciate it if you could "stun " him with "Did the 911 Commission coverup
for GWB and his Nazi party .Co;bert may not be aware of Prescott Bush's Nazi collaboration in 1940's and GHWB taking up his fathers ways after starting with CIA ,Ambassador to China .Bill Maher and my 2 beautiful friends above still believe that 19 Arabs attacked this country ... Bull sheet 2 ellis st woburn ma 01801 781-932-1640

Wynn Ray · 1 year ago

The footage I saw last night at these "hate rallies" shows Gov. Palin stirring people up, and Sen. McCain actually defending the virtue of Sen. Obama to those same people. I think John McCain is a good soldier who stood up to take one for the team. Does anybody actually think this is a race? The GOP knew they would loose this election short of putting God on the ticket.

John · 1 year ago

Robert:

Lighten up.He always asks these kind of questions. If you don't believe he is one of us you apparently didn't see his presentation at the Press Club dinner for Bush. Rather then get serious I would consider responding with equally absurd answers.

Peach McDouall · 1 year ago

I vote with those who say you should pull a Palin. Only, I think you should pull a Tina Fey. If he asks you something you don't want to answer, look adorable and shoot tiny little six-guns.

Those who don't get that you know Colbert is on our side made me chuckle. The joke you and Colbert are playing reminds me of mirrors facing each other, reflecting back into infinity.

Beth · 1 year ago

Do as Sarah Palin did...don't answer the question. Instead say that you want to talk straight to the American people. Look straight into the camera and go off on another subject, any subject. Catch him off guard!

Colbert Fan · 1 year ago

Ask him "who loves himself more, you, papa bear Bill O'Rielly, or Sean Hannity?

Also, suggest you are going to do a film that explores the resemblance between Stephen and Tek Jansen except for the exagerated size of Tek's package. Whatever you do be honest about your goals and be self deprecating with your comments and humor. something like: I'm just trying to point out McCain's inconsistancies I just unfortunately don't have your gift for humor." Your goal is to get people to watch your stuff and like you. Why else would you go on the show?

marleyinoc · 1 year ago

you can't nail colbert, but if you go in with good humor and make your points he'll help make them for you with his outlandish "what the right would say" comments... i assuming you know this, but then again I always thought the Republican leadership played dumb to earn votes - but they proved it wasn't an act by inviting Colbert to speak...

Gilda · 1 year ago

Looking on with the buying of banks. CasLooking at the economy, what is goinh to banks to help these greedy corporate big wigs make out with 30% interest rates, late fees and overlimit fees that the consumer will never be able to pay. And now what is happening? We are giving them the license to further jilt the consumer out of tax money that Congress approved to help the consumer. No, I think not, this money was given to help the banking industry to hold consumers as indentured servants. Pay a little and never pay out the debt. This greed that was voted on by Congress has got to stop. 30% interest, late fees higher than the original payment and when you call to these companies you talk to a foreigner, or a computer.

Constance · 1 year ago

Ask him, "Are you or have you ever been associated with the U.S. Council for World Freedom as John McCain was, (and may still officially be affiliated with)?" It is a high-brow, right-wing group known for its racist and anti-semitic views.

Jack · 1 year ago

Are you angling to be McCain's ambassador to Tibet?

Jamie B. · 1 year ago

I agree with the others who are saying to lighten up. Stephen Colbert is making a mockery of these big mouthed "think they know-it-alls" from the right or wherever. He did roast Bush, who was none too pleased. He's got a big brain and he uses it. That line he fed you was like the old Groucho Marx (etc) line "So, have you stopped beating your wife?" It's a no win set up. Hey, anybody can be investigative, now be clever.

sunshine · 1 year ago

Do you think we should put a National debt clock in front of the White House, Senate, House of Rep., all Governor's residence's and mega churches?

Sofedup · 1 year ago

Nothing like making a sensible remark look ignorant because of the inability to correctly express ones self through the art of diction by using "then"
instead of "than". it's not a colloquialism just poor diction.
"just say'n..."

Beth Williamson · 1 year ago

I've read George Lakoff's THE POLITICAL MIND. In there he states that liberals never need to accept the framing of a conservative. Always feel free to make your own framing on the spot. This will be easier if you keep in mind your values and goals.
Good luck.
Beth W.

Eve De Bona · 1 year ago

Just remember that he' joking, Robert, & keep your sense of humor! He's mocking the Bill O'Reillys of this world; he's totally one of us. Have FUN on the show! Pretend it's a ping-pong match.

daniel thomas · 1 year ago

Robert!-----WEAR LIPSTICK!!!

Sue · 1 year ago

He'll ask you why you keep tearing down America, in keeping with his patriotic theme.

The only answer is a short answer, that you're only reporting on what's happening, and if that's the destruction of America, that's what you report.

Colbert constantly interrupts. Keep your answers short.

George Peterman · 1 year ago

Ask him who would win a cage match: Joe Biden or Sara Palin?

sara · 1 year ago

Ask him why he's not American enough to pronounce the "T" in his last name.

This is just such a great show.

Jeff Schiffman · 1 year ago

Mr. Greenwald,
I'm assuming your post is intended in a tongue-in-cheek manner. But, I'm surprised by some of the posts which indicate that, like the editor of Time that invited Colbert to the White House Press dinner (one of the great moments in comedy), folks don't get that his schtick is a put-on. Albeit, his parody of O'Reilly has become stale, and he does tend to take it too far with some of his guests.
Folks, you may not appreciate his humor, but it is just a joke. He's doing his part to ridicule the nutbag Right-wingers.

Richard L Walker · 1 year ago

-/ A question like that doesn't deserve an answer ... BUT ... since this is a microphone and camera ... (the answer)

- The Obama campaign hasn't been exactly clean as a whistle either so try to stay away from the horribly - horribly negative. The simply negative should be acceptable.

-/ Palin has probably shot herself in the foot where future beauty contests are concerned.

-/ Palin has all this talk about terrorism. Has she been going across the pond to the "red" side?

studiocat · 1 year ago

Just have the Sarah Palin Debate Flow Chart handy (www.adennak.com) you'll be well-equipped

gary · 1 year ago

Dear Mr. Greenwald, even though I admire your current political leanings you better hope he doesn't ask you why you didn't allow your film shoots to be unionized back in the late 80's. I was a set dressser on your NBC movie of the week "Hiroshima".

btw I need a job, are you hiring? Is it union?

ted tronnes · 1 year ago

thanks for your work. you're brilliant so you'll be fine ... but heed this advice...lest we forget, colbert is a comedic actor FIRST. And he is "in character" on the Report, the schtick here. Nothing will sink your ship faster than mistaking your 4 minutes for a viable opp to make a real point about Obama or McCain, no matter how critical or simplistic. Try to let go of that approach; its a "show." And it's not about O & Mc. It's about you, the messenger. That said, to avoid getting shot or, conversely, to appear credible with credible views, get into Colbert's comedic game. How? The hilarious format succeeds via sarcasm and exaggeration; ergo, nothing will rattle or derail SC quicker than exaggerating the absurd (line of questioning) even further than he does. The Q&A; format expects answers but since the questions are intentionally lopsided, the trick will be to make your responses even more lopsided (even if it means not answering). Make sense? Play by the rules, you lose; play his game and you could hold your own.
My bet is that he will attack O/you vs defending Mc, so be prepared to exaggerate (have fun with) for example current mainstream rumors that Obama is unAmerican... a terrorist due to name/lineage. Submissively you respond, "hmmm, true. If O really believed in america, he would have invested in more of it like mcCain and have lots of properties not just one, right?"

lame example, but in your responses address the idea, not the question; look for the op to twist word meanings and extend thinking to end w ever more absurd logic that makes the opposite true.
E.g. re zero military service: your admission: "Obama's an intellectual, a cocktail party buzzkill with ZERO military bling or false swagger unlike our current amazing false Com.in Chief. O risks leading us thru a boring 4-8 years of "talking" to other nations instead of bombing them. And with less and less war, what are we going to tell our children to be when they grow up, teachers?"
Just an example of how to return the absurd he'll lob.
I spent two years as college roommate and 3 months backpacking thru Europe afterwards w SC, and I can tell you 2 things about him for sure: a) he is a consummate debater turned actor so forget winning a "debate" on air, and b) his first love/weakness is humor. Debate him and you lose. Make him laugh unexpectedly and the entire world appreciates 3 winners, you, SC and Barrack.
Good Luck.
Ted T.
And Tyrone, if you're reading, all's well these days. rock on.

aicram62 · 1 year ago

To Our Divided Leaders:

We the undersigned, are EXTREMELY OUTRAGED at how you have allowed capitalism to destroy our economy, and our environment, and our relationships with other countries. You made business deals that have grown tentacles into every function of our society, which have failed, and now you are unsure of WHERE to apply any resolutions.

As you have commandeered 700 billion dollars, with the probability of more lurking every day, and are attempting YOUR solution. We are submitting this petition to tell you what we want in return for OUR MONEY.

OUR SOLUTION is in solving POLLUTION. This is a way of life that you have been avoiding, splitting hairs, and out right burying for over 30 years.
With the City of Malmo, Sweden as a beacon... WE hereby DEMAND, ECOLOGY BONDS!!!

* We Demand that ECO-BONDS be issued within the first 10 days of office of the next president.
* We Demand that these bonds pay (matching) dollar for dollar after two years.
* We Demand that these funds be used to create GREEN COLLAR jobs beginning no later than April 15, 2009


The following jobs are to be created, IN THIS VERY SAME ORDER:

1. M.R.F.: Material Recovery Facilities are to be built. At least one for every county in the United States. They can be built by a private company OR by the Local government
2. E-Waste: Factories for disassembling computers and other electronics, salvaging the parts. These MUST also exist at least one per county.
3. WE Demand ELECTRIC VEHICLES! Since the government has seen fit to "invest" in certain businesses to help with the crisis, we want the government to "INVEST" in GM and CHEVRON to recover the technology for the electric cars that were on the road 10 years ago. We want you to make it possible for middle to lower income families to afford the purchase of these vehicles.
4. We Demand that you make public toilets "waterless" as at the New York Bronx Zoo.
5. We Demand that you STOP the use of FOOD for bio-diesel, and instead use farm scraps and grass clippings.
6. We Demand that the airlines use the company RWA (for starters) to find fuel through grease.
7. We Demand that methane (natural gas) be collected from farms AND land fills (after M.R.F. sorts through them)to run the electric grid.
8. We Demand that you clean our water with PLANTS and not CHEMICALS, creating wetland sewers, first residential and then commercial.
9. We Demand that you support companies such as Michelle Kaufman's GLIDE HOUSE, and L.E.E.D. approved housing.Call a moratorium on the clearing of new land for houses, instead encourage houses already built to be used or rebuilt.
10. We Demand that you advertise and peer pressure people into making xeriscapes not lawns.
11. We Demand that you contact Konarka Technologies, and negotiate FAIRLY for the use of their "solar inks"
12. We Demand that you watch the videos on Environmentally friendly options at www.youtube.com/user/aicram62 for a start.

Once you have completed these tasks we will be in touch to give you more assignments.


http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/ECO-BONDS-NOW

Scott Baker · 1 year ago

If Colbert asks you "who hates America more..." you might counter with, "I don't know know; I'm still trying to figure out who hates the America economy more, Bush or McCain. Have you SEEN the stock market today, by the way? It seems Bush can't even help his base anymore."

Don · 1 year ago

I think he might ask what the margin of Obama's victory might be. Your answer should be anything over 1 vote in the electoral college is what we're hoping for.

He might ask where the 'victory party' will be held. You should say that you were going to ask if he would host it.

He might ask what your true feelings about Palin are. You should say that you are thankful that you are not a moose.

He might ask you what the was best question/suggestion you got from this blog spot (I'm sure he knows by now). Your answer should be that an anonymous writer from South Carolina suggested asking if he is still gay or did the behavior modification program work?

He may ask you how you feel about all the negative campaigning. You response should be: "Don't start no stuff, won't be no stuff."

He may ask about Hillary and Bill. You should stick to the story that I recently made up, that she will be Obama's first appointment to the Supreme Court -- if she'll take it.

That 's about it from NC. Good Luck tonight.
Don. arthurbenus@yahoo.com

Alex Marshall · 1 year ago

And as for answers, there's always "I'll check that out and get right back to ya!" Repeat as necessary.

Come to think of it, you cd go on the show with a Palin mask...

Emory Thompson · 1 year ago

Kick him in the nuts and he will be kinder with his probing questions.

Read · 1 year ago

In answer to Colbert's question "Who hates America more . . .?" I would have answered (if I'd thought fast enough -- not likely!) "No, it's 'which of us, you or me, Stevie, loves America enough to make it better?' That would be me, Stevie, because that's what I do. John McCain's a menace, and I'm here to protect our great nation against him."

eric fredenburgh · 1 year ago

the answer to any question could be" as mysterious as where stephen colbert's southern accent has gone!"

Gazooks · 1 year ago

Ask Steven if he was raped in a men's room by Republican Ex-Senator Larry Craig, or Republican Ex-Representative Mark Foley, or Florida McCain Campaign Chairman Bob Allen, or National Young Republicans Chairman Glenn Murphy Jr., would he terribly mind mandatorily paying for a rape test kit, ...and if so why.

Rochelle Becker · 1 year ago

The politics of hate. Stephen is on our side and how does one support this racism? However, something about the economy is bound to be asked and this is what I believe you should be ready for tomorrow evening. I would concentrate on the solution (Obama) not the problem McCain/Palin - don't give them your air time.

Good luck

In Peace
Rochelle

Patriot · 1 year ago

Why not ask why the USA is using fiat currency and the Constitutional privilage and DUTY of the Congress to coin money has been handed over to private banks (Central Bank)? Ask him if he understands that these bankers control the business cycle and periodically allow financial catastrophe so that they end up with even more money at the expense of We The People. These bankers (IMF) and global Central Banks (the Rothchilds, Warburgs, Bushes, Rockefellers, et al) finance and profit from virtually all wars around the globe. How long will these charades go on? Ask him who the Puppet Masters of our politicians reall are.

Saarita · 1 year ago

Mr. Greenwald,
You know what the Colbert show is like, It's the Stephen Colbert Show, not yours. If you don't want to be part of the entertainment, don't go on the show. It's Colbert's show and he gets to run it. Maybe you should get your own program.

sunshine · 1 year ago

If Obama is the candiate for the Democrats and McCain is not really the Republican candiate, which party is he running for? And why can't more Independents like Ralph Nader or Ron Paul be in the debates?

Irwin Reiter · 1 year ago

Gov. Palin is connected with a group in Alaska which
supports a plan to break away from the U.S.A, & to
form a seperate country. The President of that group
has stated that he hates the U.S.A. How could she
be nominated for the position of V.P.?????

Samuel Claiborne · 1 year ago

This is totally absurd. His persona is a parody of a right-wing demagogue like Rush or O'Reilly or Hannity. We, the audience, know it. We get the joke. No-one thought you 'hated America', for God's sake. If you don't get it, you shouldn't be on his show, instead of whining about it like a pussy. How utterly disappointing that you'd indulge in this silliness. I love your films, but this is probably the stupidest appeal in left-wing history.

Eric Goldberg · 1 year ago

Don't try to be really serious with Colbert.....it's a comedy show on Comedy Central starring a comedian surrounded by comedy writers , so, if I wanted to attack Colbert on his own grounds I might question his use of the French pronunciation of his name.

wordweaver · 1 year ago

First and foremost, Stephen does NOT do interviews to get information. He only wants to hear his own voice. You would do best to study the interview techniques of Bill O'Reilly, Bill OH REALLY?). His most common tactic is to as the equivalent of; "When did you stop beating your wife?

JL · 1 year ago

Expect Colbert to ask about the video that concerned McCain's health records, and the video of McCain's head (not looking well) after his surgery for skin cancer. That really pissed off the right, and I'm not sure that they do not have a point.

DASC · 1 year ago

Ask him if he knows where you can get a new debt clock that will house enough digits to reflect the current debt figure. The last one had to be taken down because we needed to add another digit thanks to recent history.

J. Whitney · 1 year ago

If he asks a twisted question, answer it with a question about why he chooses to ask twisted questions rather than ones that can be answered without a pre-prejudiced audience. Ask him why he wants a particular answer? Do his producers object to straightforward questions, or is he applying to work for the National Inquirer?
Turn the tables.

Colette · 1 year ago

You guys....Greenwald is being funny too. He's having fun with this, don't get your panties in a bunch; I'm sure he's well aware of Colbert and his humor.

He's just getting us involved as well and preparing to have some fun.

Lighten up.

Ginny Wright · 1 year ago

So, was it your catholic upbringing that made you this way? Ted Tronnes is absolutely right - it's a show! Maybe an over the top list of future Brave New Films:

- Sarah Palin's Guide to International Diplomacy; it's a video short
- an investigation into the serious concern: "Do big ears enhance intelligence?" One of SC's ears noticably protrudes, as do Obama's
- Furnishing W's Library & Center for the Study of Ethics and the Constitution under $1 billion: is it achievable?
- Blackwater & Halliburton - folk tunes for the low information voter.

You get the idea & probably have better ideas than I do. Be a hoot! Be yourself. We'll all be watching. Yes. Here in Nebraska!

Debbie Terhune · 1 year ago

I think you did a great job on the Colbert Report. I think the most important thing is to keep a sense of humor about it. I think you should ask Colbert "Of all the lobbyists involved in McCains campaign, as advisors, staffers etc. who is his(Colbert's) favorite lobbyist and which lobbyist would make the best Secretary of the Treasury?" In fact I am proposing a new game "Know your McCain Lobbyists" As a personal favor, I would like to see Colbert bring back "this week in God" Thanks Robert for all that you do.

lindsey · 1 year ago

Stephen Colbert is not a republican - he is mocking them, yet in a very backhanded fashion. Keep your cool. Slow down. Don't let him railroad you. And if it means you're silent for the whole time, then so be it. Remember - you're both on the same side, just remind the audience and him of that. This show is a Farce - don't let it get to big!

James Martin · 1 year ago

From watching the Colbert Report, Stephen will ask you the same question as an opener as he did last time. He may change it up and say "Who hates America more, you or Obama?", but it will be the same question. Just say the answer is "McCain supporters, true Americans who loved their country wouldn't act like a lynch mob". You would probably have McCain demanding an apology from you, but do we care?
PS. The real Stephen Colbert is a democrat who is making fun of people like O'Reilly. Settle down, it's only comedy!

james c bush · 1 year ago

Ask him who will be the biggest loser, McCain or his favorite hockey team the Saginaw Spirit?

Lynda Orzen · 1 year ago

We all know and love Stephen for his total absurdity. I would ask him if he loves Sarah new hair-do and if you think it will help her hide the real monster within.

S.Fye · 1 year ago

I would ask him when is he going to come out of the closet and admit he's really a liberal democrat posing as a neocon?

Sonya · 1 year ago

Just play with him and enjoy yourself.
Bottom line: there's nothing to "nail" here. And, as you know already, if you try to use his show as a soapbox, and do it in a less than playful way, he will find a way to punish you.
Thanks so much for your email, by the way. Reading your plea for advice unlocked a mystery that has remained unsolved since 2006. I never understood how it ever came about that Steven Colbert was invited to speak at the White House Press Dinner that year. Now I see, although it's hard to believe: the speaker's committee must have been so stupid to actually think they were booking a real conservative shock jock.

Richard · 1 year ago

I know who Colbert is, who the hell is Robert Greenwald??

sunshine · 1 year ago

Commerical properties are a significant problem in the mortgage crisis, who will get the million dollar commercial properties? How many properties will be going to foreign companies and foreign governments?

Lyn · 1 year ago

Just tell him you're sorry that he's not running for President, no thanks to N Carolina, and that you would have voted for him no questions asked because he's a can-do man who knows how to get under people's skin for truthiness. Which is what george bush didn't do.

theron · 1 year ago

so far i like many of these below (ambassador to Tibet - LOL!)... Robert - "nailing" Colbert will only work if you can particpate in the parody with a sense of humor... bringing some lipstick with you is not bad - the silent "t" has been used in a couple of interviews so use something fresh.

how about suggesting charging an online and cable pay per view where the money goes to the treasury by broadcasting that cage match? better still, a reality TV show that pits one government official vs another every week on pay per view? say $50 per view +/- each week (or sell adverts on network)? certain to be a well watched show and could raise tens of millions if not hundreds of millions. perhaps mud wrestling as metaphor for mud slinging?

Mike · 1 year ago

I believe you should pull a Sarah Palin and say you don't want to answer the question you really want to ask him a question that is embarassing and has a gotcha quality. This is a comedy show and you can't take it too seriously, but you can pull a reverse on him by asking him who is more hateful and angry at intelligence in Americans McCain or Sarah Palin? The best offense is a good defense, so start with defense and be ready for a wild ride.

Mike

MarieLee · 1 year ago

Stephen Colbert is a comedian. He is mocking FOX NEWS as if he were a rabid Republican. The best way to work with him is to laugh when he's "gottcha!"

But, you have to have a sense of humor to work with him. If you have your ego in there, you will surely fail.

Have a great time. Stephen is one of US.

Lissy Gulick · 1 year ago

I think you rock-- but as an Ohion, I am really concerned that the Republicans are yet again trying to pull the rug out from under Ohio voters. Can you call attention to this latest outrage: ap.google.com

Regina Cowles · 1 year ago

Do what I train every political candidate I work with to do - skillfully change the subject. "Well you know, Stephen, that's an important point but if you watch TELL MCCAIN TO END THE POLITICS OF HATE you would see ...."

If he compares you to someone else again claim something outrageous like you are twins separated at birth or had a common ancestor back in the stone age.

You have a good sense of humor, go for it. But most of all have fun! Colbert is a phenomenon and deserves the laughs he gets.

Joshua Wachtel · 1 year ago

The only way to nail Colbert is to be more Colbert than Colbert. Detach from assumptions of who you are, and what your point of view is, and impro.

If Colbert says, "Who hates America more, you or Michael Moore?" you say, "You wouldn't believe it, Stephen, but Michael and I have an ongoing argument about that very question. He says he hates America more, because he makes popular films that are shown throughout the world, and I insist my reporting and commentary represents the greater hatred. The thing is, what you call 'hating America' is the way we express our love for America. It's only by hating what's wrong with America that we can make this country stronger and express our true love for our country."

Colbert's quick, though. He'll be back in a flash.

In a sense, you can't win. Know that.

My advice is, get centered and do the best to accept Colbert's attacks. Every time he moves in, accept his attack and redirect it. Laugh a lot, too.

One last tip. Study this video of an Aikido student throwing four attackers in what is known as a randori: www.youtube.com That should give you the idea.

Good luck!

margaret · 1 year ago

When ever Colbert catches you off guard, just blame it all on Mccain or change the subject or say that you are not going to answer the question the way he would like you to.
Good luck!

Don Richardson · 1 year ago

Greenwald and Moore love America the Democracy. Colbert either loves, likes or shills for America the Theofacist Police State.

connie · 1 year ago

[1] Sarah Palin hates America more - reference her association to (and her husband's' membership in) the hate-spewing, anti-patriotic Alaskan Independence Party.
[2] Wall Street's bankers hate America more - the ones who invented the Credit Default Swaps and other complicated gambling instruments that brought down America's financial system.
[3] Phil Gramm hates America more - he's the one who drafted an amendment to commodoties regulation that essentially created Credit Default Swaps. (For some great readaing, see today's Daily Kos for report on Matt Taibbi humiliating Byron York about this very subject.)
[4] The racist, small-minded McCain/Palin supporters hate America more - those who call for physical violence toward Obama.
[5] Republican stragetists and partisans hate America more - those who are blaming America's financial debacle on minority borrowers who have defaulted on their home loans.

Paul · 1 year ago

I guess I'm a better debater than you Robert. I fully support you but the answer to who hates America more, no the question is who loves America more. I am surprised to hear such a question from anyone in the journalistic community. There is a first amendment being exercised by Michael Moore and myself, not to make you look stupid exercised by you right now with such an extremely biased and negative conclusion within your question.
The difference of what I do and what you do is I show video's that cannot lie, you just showed the country you are less than equal to a kid in a high school journalist class.
Who died and made you St. Peter, God, to determine who does and does not love America!

Colbert is nothing, think of him like that, you answer your questions and do not be afraid to put him in his puberty seat.

Noel · 1 year ago

I have never seen anyone nail Colbert -- he is The Bomb. Pamper his fake ego and enjoy the ride -- he's totally on our side!

Chuck Davis · 1 year ago

Either / or questions are best answered with "neither of the above" or "none of the above" and then move on to a topic of your choosing. Good luck....being a good guy is not always easy.

Dwain Haynes · 1 year ago

Ask him what he would think of the

Palin/Cobert ticket in 2012

If you make it personal to him, he gets bashfull and off balance.

Wendy Davie · 1 year ago

Just remember you are the better person and the old standby, picture him naked and tell him that is what you are doing and it is not a pretty sight
The very best of luck from many of us in Cairns Australia.

jp · 1 year ago

wish I could help, the think with Colbert is that if you do have a valid comeback or answer that nails him he will just cut you off in some loud manner while interrupting you. As I am sure you've noticed, Colbert won't give you a chance even if you are prepared. It's his show and he won't let anyone take the spotlight away from him, even for a second.

Alan Mitchell · 1 year ago

Why should America replace one doddery old codger with another doddery old codger?


Alan
Scotland, UK

Barack Hussein Obama · 1 year ago

.
Robert,

I LOVE all the work you're doing to get me elected! As I told the New York times today, I'd be up 2 or 3 more points were it not for FOX News. Thanks to you, there are many people who never watch FOX News who, nonetheless slam FOX News. This is critical to my success because CNN, MSNBC, NBC, ABC, CBS, BBC, etc., tell it like I want it to be told...the last thing I need is some rabble-rousing network raising issues about all my new spending programs and tax hikes.

Because of you, millions of people have never heard of Joe Plumber, the small businessman whose taxes would be increased so I could "spread the wealth."

Keep up the good work, Bob! Oh, BTW, Michelle and I LOVED Xanadu!

Barack Obama '08
.

Wesley · 1 year ago

Hey colbert have you worshiped SATAN all your life or were you a Christian at some point, couldn't be in control so dicided to turn from God?

Dwain Haynes · 1 year ago

Ask him if is willing to start up the

Truthiness Express

for Palin/Cobert 2012

Jen Fad · 1 year ago

I think he will try to make light of 'Tell McCain to End the Hate Campaign'. He will attempt to link Obama with Ayers and try to make what Congressman said about McCain insighting hate to be to the contrary afterall Obama has brought up race first. I think you should concentrate on this area because Stephen will not mention the other videos that bring into question McCain's health/age or the inconsistencies. I think if you can the opportunity you should point out that Palin's husband wanted Alaska to be separate from the United States so who is really is for America?

Chet Zebroski · 1 year ago

Enjoy his sense of perspective, compliment him and note how so many are turning to parody to get a true sense of news as the '4th Estate' has abandoned us.
Then, ask him how it feels to be a part of the paradigm shift.

Betty Doerr · 1 year ago

Robert, He loves to be dared. I would give him the Robert Greenwald green screen challenge: He stars in a Brave New Film video urging people to vote in front of a greenscreen, and you get to post as many backgrounds as you want. Good Luck! Betty San Francisco

Holly · 1 year ago

Okay, heres the deal... He is going to go for anything about McCain/Palin. You should just be prepared for ANY McCain/Palin questions, or quips. Make him beg for mercy!

saadasim · 1 year ago

Who hates America more: Simply the people that keep on making bad decisions, the people that do things under the table out of the publics sight and approval, the people that gave Hundreds of Billions to rich corporation and banks, the people that led America into an ignoble war where America lost thousands, and most important ruined our cherished reputation in the world. They are the ones that hate America the most.

Hal O'Leary · 1 year ago

He will most likely ask you about Obama's connection to ACORN. Your response should include the obversation that this issue is being raised in preperation for invalidating the election should McCain lose.
A question you might ask him is "Does McCain refute Viet-Nam's POW guard's statement that he, McCain, was not tortured but, in fact, this guard gave orders that he was to be taken care of because of the propaganda value he represented."
The simple fact that he was a POW should not qualify him as a hero. I think it is shameful that he continually use this in the campaign, particularly after a true hero like Kerry was "swift-boated".

Spencer Stall · 1 year ago

When Colbert asks you a question, just say you'd rather not answer that and talk about something you want to talk about. Do this every time he comes up with another question. Tell him if it was good enough for Palin it should be good enough for him.

Robert · 1 year ago

well well Wesley- with that sort of comment we all know you certainly aren't a Christian!! Or maybe you're the sort of Christian who believes in the Rapture and are doing all in your power to bring it on!! I just call that trying to blackmail Jesus by making things on the planet so bad that he HAS to come back. well- here's news for y'all- Jesus doesn't give in to blackmail- but he does expect each of us to take RESPONSIBILITY for choosing to HATE.

Tom Henehan · 1 year ago

Who hates America more?

Must be Michael Moore ~ the right-wing-nuts have actually produced a comedy film poking fun at him ~ a first for those guys! But neither Mike nor I have nearly as much contempt for the average working American person as does the typical GOP radio-talker or power broker...

flush_bushco · 1 year ago

Stephen, I notice you're not wearing a flag pin. Why do you hate America?

Mary Lehner · 1 year ago

I imagine that Colbert will have read your appeal for questions and will have something to say about it! It is a perfect opening for his persona... I'm looking forward to your appearance!

trip · 1 year ago

So Stephen, I heard you have a really big hammer. Is it true that you have a cameo in Naylin' Paylin'?

Carolyn Duck · 1 year ago

It should be pointed out that Michael Moore and people like you are the true patriots. The patriots are the ones who keep an eye on government and when it pulls away from the part of by the people and for the people it is the people like you who seek to restore it to the path it was intended. The people who wrap themselves in the flag and say my country right or wrong are the loyalist and with people like them we would still be a colony of England

gravy · 1 year ago

The best way to play Stephen's game (which is just classic improv) is to "Yes, and" what he says. That doesn't mean you always have to agree with his premise, just don't ever get defensive. It's much better to say "well, that's an interesting way of looking at it, but i think you're missing..." instead of "No, I'm not like that!"

Talking points:
- This election is like the easiest IQ test in history.
- Obama is one of the smartest, most qualified candidates in history.
- The anger and hatred of the right is embarrassing and dangerous.
- Liberalism is not communism, extremism, nor even left-wing, we are the democratic center trying to wrest control away from violent, greedy extremists who hate this country and it's people.

Possible Colbert Questions:
Q: In the past, you have [insert relationship] with [insert shady figure], why are you palling around with terrorists?
A: I thought coming an here and associating with a great american like yourself would cancel that out.

Q: You are famous for creating viral videos, what sort of antibiotics can I use to get rid of you?
A: There is no cure.

Q: You made a video about McCain's violent, bitter, uncontrollable anger, what's wrong with passion?
A: There's a difference between passion and misanthropic hatred.

Q: You have built a reputation for repeatedly nailing McCain, does that make you gay?
A: No, why? Does it excite you?

Q: On your blog you asked your readers to anticipate my questions so you could avoid being nailed. Did they anticipate this question?
A: Yes.

Joan Frey · 1 year ago

Why not ask him "Have you stopped beating your wife?"

jim prues · 1 year ago

Regardless of what Steven says, you say...

"Well I just try to be honest, smart and caring. What are you trying to be?"

Bob · 1 year ago

Robert,
Ask him to rephrase the question in a non-comparative way. Stephen relies a lot on comparisons for dramatic effect and seems to enjoy puns. Btw, I love the videos; it seems the republicans just cannot decide which plank makes the platform fit the nation. Being a Libertarian, Stephen sounds like a republican until you talk about the drug war and socialistic moves like the government guaranteeing the banks against bad loans.

Want to win with Colbert?..learn to think Libertarian and out business the war with commerce of a nonviolent nature. Libertarians are against war but for free market. So they will sell someone else the means for war that they would not engage in; a nice twist in the old thinker, eh?

Good hunting

Betty Dooley · 1 year ago

Please ask Stephen Colbert what is the highest rank that McCain reached in the Navy and exactly what commands he had which gave him actual experience as a military leader.

Also, please ask him exactly what makes Sarah Palin an "energy expert" other than negotiating on the oil pipeline (and how much actual work she did on that versus many others who worked on the issue).
Thanks! Have fun.

katherine davidson · 1 year ago

he's all that about o.j. ask him if he thinks tom delay and o.j. will hook up in prison once tom finally gets his just deserts.

S J Gerow · 1 year ago

Since Colbert is satirizing Bill O'Reilly and Fox's Fake News, take your humor and responses there. However, there are numerous, excellent suggestions prior to mine. Thanks for all you do.

Jim Eliason · 1 year ago

Tell Stephen you liked his book. Ask him if Sarah Palin wrote the nonsequitur title.

Thank him for his refreshing use of sarcasm. Then add "As if we need more sarcasm."

Say you're trying to be the top of your profession, and that Stephen is trying to be over the top.

Say you admire Stephen's incisive social commentary, like "The Simpsons".

If he cuts you off, ask if you can have a 1 minute answer like one in the debate.

Bob · 1 year ago

Stephen, is your irrational hatred of BEARS the reason you support McCain/Palin, since Palin wants to remove the polar bear from the protected species status? Do you like the idea of open season on bears, Mr. Colbert? Is that because they're terrorists?

Willy · 1 year ago

Robert, don't be a wuss. Let him ask you whatever he wants to ask you, and don't anticipate questions. He's on your side, you dope.

William Maule · 1 year ago

Robert,

I sense Mr. Colbert will ask, "Why does Sarah Palin hate our polar bears?" Sincer her son, Clutch, (whatever), is in Iraq, there's no reason to ask why she hates the troops.

Michael C. Dewey · 1 year ago

You should ask him about the worker ownership Cooperative of the Basque in Northern Spain called Mondragon. There the Workers do own the Bank. At least now here, the govt. owns part of some.

jim · 1 year ago

Tell Stephen that your films are educational and are used to help supplement the "No child left behind" laws.

American Teacher · 1 year ago

Stealing from one of the funnier emails, ask him if Sarah Palin is qualified to be an astronaut, since she can see the moon from her house.

The others are right. Try to get into his rhythm, be quick to laugh with him, play along, and he will let you off without too much bloodshed.

Stephanie · 1 year ago

Stephen always asks his guests this kind of un-answerable question. When he asks it of you, regardless of the subject matter, just smile and say to him, "Still beating your wife, Stephen"? "Come on, it's a simple yes or no question!" "Still beating your wife?" You expose the flaw in the question without having to take a position for one side or the other.

It's a simple matter of logical reasoning, but I forget the name of the 'strawman' variation. I'll look it up and get back to you.

Jennifer · 1 year ago

Ask him if he thinks it is possible to arrange for Palin to go hunting with Dick Cheney, and maybe they could then have a Vice Presidential shootout!

danielle · 1 year ago

not michael. not you not steve himself. because

"During times of universal deceit, telling the truth becomes a revolutionary act." -- George Orwell

Joyce · 1 year ago

Start out by telling him that you do coke and like hookers. This way he'll know you've done your homework and he'll have to quick think to up his questioning a notch.

Pete · 1 year ago

Robert,
Good luck, Colbert is sharp:)
How do the candidates rank on Truthiness? By the way, do you have a Truthiness ranking for the candidates? I think you're doing a great job of exposing un-Truthiness (or Lie-ability)?
If Sarah Palin leaves Alaska who will be left to kill all the Bears? We wouldn't want to expose America to an invasion of Bears from Alaska.

We'll be watching, have fun.

David Huseby · 1 year ago

He's going to ask: "Why are you such a dithering Wus that you have to beg your supporters to give you tips on being interviewed by a TV Comedian?"

Have some freakin' HoJos, why don't ya?

RL · 1 year ago

I think that you should ask him why is everyone acting like Sarah Palin is okay as a national role model if we really care about children in this country. Sarah Palin is rarely seen holding her baby and when she does it is an obvious photo opportunity. She has a downs syndrome baby and a pregnant teen. Nothing which is her fault, but is it just me that thinks this family needs a mother's love, support and special touch? Doesn't the country want to know that she values her family before they will believe that she cares about theirs? Somebody has to address this, as they are waving the sexism flag and scared to address this issue.

Joel · 1 year ago

Stephen is always flustered by flattery. Ask him if anyone has ever told him he is really cute when he is angry.

Pete · 1 year ago

You could always ask to make a call.. to one of your lifelines.

Joe Reedy · 1 year ago

Ask Mr. Colbert:
When will his show again feature Toby Keith and his racist lyrics?

Barak Obama: Great candidate or the greatest candidate?

Why won't he give Ralph Nader the Colbert bump?

Could he use his influence with Steve Carel to get him to star in one of your videos?

Andrew · 1 year ago

Good luck, Colbert is a genius (I mean that in the most literal way possible) and an expert at keeping his guests off balance. On the plus side, he is liberal at heart, and has been jibing McCain/Palin for awhile now.

Laugh with the audience, play to his ego (biggest thing in the room)and he should give you the opportunity to be serious for some of the interview.

If you want a more serious discussion of the issues, book the Daily Show.

Ellen · 1 year ago

If everyone would walk 5 miles in the other persons shoes. Compassion would prevail. I would
like to hear the possitive about everybody. Leave
all the bad things behind. Then voting would be easier. There needs to be a cap on all Presidential races. Say some great things about one another. Smile alot. Ellen

Howard · 1 year ago

Barrack knows it's the economy
McCain is still trying to figure that out.

L Posey · 1 year ago

Hey Robert,

Good Luck with Colbert. We all know its a free for all with Colbert doing most of the talking but if you do get a chance to bring something up ask him if either candidate can guarantee the American public that Dick Cheney will not be welcome anywhere near the white house.

Best wishes and keep up the good work,

Larry Posey

Mary Glass · 1 year ago

He may ask why you are trying to make John Mc Cain look crazy. Tell him you can't take credit, John is making it a cakewalk.

Steve Kelem · 1 year ago

The trick to the question about who hates America more is that the answer is "none of the above". You're just courageous enough to recognize problems and expose them to the light of day. "Sunlight is the best disinfectant."--Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis

But the tactic seems less like trying to undermine you than for Colbert to be a devil's advocate, asking you to respond to your opposition's criticism.

Mary Miller · 1 year ago

Have lots of combacks and wave a little American Flag enthusiastically whenever you give a good political dig (or he does)

Obama and McCain are both elected representatives. McCain has had the most time to fix the ills of our country.


Politicians are the only people in the world who create problems and then campaign against them.

Have you ever wondered why, if both the Democrats and the Republicans are against deficits, WHY do we have deficits?

Have you ever wondered why, if all the politicians are against inflation and high taxes, WHY do we have inflation and high taxes?

You and I don't propose a federal budget. The president does.

You and I don't have the Constitutional authority to vote on appropriations. The House of Representatives does.

You and I don't write the tax code, Congress does.

You and I don't set fiscal policy, Congress does.

You and I don't control monetary policy, the Federal Reserve Bank does.

One hundred senators, 435 congressmen, one president, and nine Supreme Court justices 545 human beings out of the 300 million are directly, legally, morally, and individually responsible for the domestic problems that plague this country.

I excluded the members of the Federal Reserve Board because that problem was created by the Congress. In 1913, Congress delegated its Constitutional duty to provide a sound currency to a federally chartered, but private, central bank.

I excluded all the special interests and lobbyists for a sound reason. They have no legal authority. They have no ability to coerce a senator, a congressman, or a president to do one cotton-picking thing. I don't care if they offer a politician $1 million dollars in cash. The politician has the power to accept or reject it. No matter what the lobbyist promises, it is the legislator's responsibility to determine how he votes.

Those 545 human beings spend much of their energy convincing you that what they did is not their fault. They cooperate in this common con regardless of party.

What separates a politician from a normal human being is an excessive amount of gall. No normal human being would have the gall of a Speaker, who stood up and criticized the President for creating deficits. The president can only propose a budget. He cannot force the Congress to accept it.

The Constitution, which is the supreme law of the land, gives sole responsibility to the House of Representatives for originating and approving appropriations and taxes. Who is the speaker of the House? She is the leader of the majority party. She and fellow House members, not the president, can approve any budget they want. If the president vetoes it, they can pass it over his veto if they agree to.

It seems inconceivable to me that a nation of 300 million cannot replace 545 people who stand convicted -- by present facts -- of incompetence and irresponsibility. I can't think of a single domestic problem that is not traceable directly to those 545 people. When you fully grasp the plain truth that 545 people exercise the power of the federal government, then it must follow that what exists is what they want to exist.

If the tax code is unfair, it's because they want it unfair.

If the budget is in the red , it's because they want it in the red.

If the Army & Marines are in IRAQ, it's because they want them in IRAQ.

If they do not receive social security but are on an elite retirement plan not available to the people, it 's because they want it that way.

There are no insoluble government problems.

Do not let these 545 people shift the blame to bureaucrats, whom they hire and whose jobs they can abolish; to lobbyists, whose gifts and advice they can reject; to regulators, to whom they give the power to regula= te and from whom they can take this power. Above all, do not let them con you into the belief that there exists disembodied mystical forces like 'the economy,' 'inflation,' or 'politics' that prevent them from doing what they take an oath to do.

Those 545 people, and they alone, are responsible.

They , and they alone, have the power.

They, and they alone, should be held accountable by the people who are their bosses provided the voters have the gumption to manage their own employees.

We should vote all of them out of office and clean up their mess!
People should vote their hearts if they had planned not to vote. It is not throwing their vote away, it is not settling for the best of the worst. I am still voting for Ron Paul.

Mccain has been in politics a lot longer than Obama and has fixed what exactly?

Carol · 1 year ago

Colbert is not often caught off guard. That's the genius of his comedy! I wqouldn't presume to be as smart as you or he. You'll do fine!

magdalena · 1 year ago

I'm sure people have said this before, but i'll repeat it anyway, play it straight and leave the jokes to him.
In interviews Colbert mentions how he tells guests that his character is an idiot and that you should "disabuse him of his ignorance". That will give him more to work with, and for me the humour lies in the clash between the real and the fake.
If you say what you honestly believe you'll come out of it looking good, it's only when guests make lame jokes that you laugh at them and not with them. Colbert's game is making himself look foolish and not his guests (unless they're Bill Kristol or Tom Delay).

Oh and have fun!!! Keep up the good work!

david morrison · 1 year ago

for asking who hates america more the answer is that colbert hates america for asking that question. the phoney liberal ass hole.

Valerie Kime · 1 year ago

So many wonderful topics have been addressed, hardly more need be said. Just thinking that Colbert might just ask "Exactly what do you have against anger? You act like there is something wrong with anger!" To which you can calmly reply,"I'd tell you but you can't handle the truth, Stephen."

Re: Palin, Why on earth would anyone who believes these are the "last days" even leave her home? Truthfully, if she does not believe there is a future, what the hell is she doing running for office? She should just stay home and wait for the Rapture!

Good luck, have fun, roll with the punches. Stephen is fantastic and you can never 'win' with him anyway...

IBmama · 1 year ago

He will always ask those "when did you stop beating your wife" double-bind questions. Just answer: "It's actually a tough call who loves America more..." and smile. Quote Jefferson on patriotism and dissent.

Ask him a question like "You do such a great job of pointing out what the holes are in campaigns:what kinds of videos do you think we should be making NOW that we have not yet made about the McCain/Palin campaign?"

Or compliment him on one of his biting bits that has shown up their campaign.

Don't be afraid to laugh at yourself or at him. He is VERY frustrating. Good luck.

William Lee Kohler · 1 year ago

Why do the dmocrats find it so imperative to turn America into a Godless socialist nation?

PK · 1 year ago

Before you reply, just stop and ask him why he asked you that specific question when there are so many other questions he could have asked. Let him talk and then just tell him the truth. He really just wants to show off--he's the proverbial political bully--so just turn it around on him and see where he takes it. Just because someone asks a question does not mean it has to be answered.

A.M. Smith · 1 year ago

Well Bob I appreciate the work you do at B.N.F, however I do think you could do a better job of being equally honest about Obama, and negative or as I prefer to call it "Reality" campaigning is useful but I think B.N.F should also use it's media power to help the 5 3rd party candidates get some much needed coverage. Also with all due respect if a man like Colbert is to wily for you perhaps you should send Me, I would love to give Mr. Elitist Funny Man a piece of my mind. I'd love to call him out on his own show. I could give you one suggestion; try to find a way to bring up how the multi-millionaires in his line of work (by that I mean Sports/Entertainment) could make a real difference by engaging in some philanthropy and paying off some mortgages for truly needy people and by reducing their spending and refusing to engage in credit. Well good luck Mr. Greenwald I'll be watching

Jeff · 1 year ago

Bob: If you get asked a similar question to "who hates america more...." you can answer one of two ways;
1) Quickly pose another question such as 'Why do you think we hate america?' or 'What's with the trick questions?'

2) Answer it; i.e.'It must be you that hates america. You're the one attacking those of us that want to move forward and fulfill ameriica's promise.

How did you answer last time?

PT · 1 year ago

the first question could be "Do you think Sarah Palin the worst vice presidential candidate in history?"

Tongue Untied · 1 year ago

Stephen: Let me answer your probing question with a question, "How do you feel about socialism defeating capitalism, now that the banks have been nationalized?"

Jake · 1 year ago

I'm afraid I don't have any advice except for to be honest and go along with the jokes. People screw up when they take the Colbert report too seriously.

Anyway best of luck and I'll be watching.

Doug A · 1 year ago

I presume your mother did not breast feed you; is that why you so prone to vituperations?

Danielle Fraenkel · 1 year ago

Ask Colbert about his anger problem. Find out if he is ready to attend anger management classes. Tell him how he can help others by modeling, that he will be a living legend once McCain and Palin come to class because he was such a fine model.

Ask Colbert who makes better mooseburgers --h ,McCain or Palin.

Ask Colbert why he is afraid of anger-- is he afraid of feelings, has he been so deprived of love that he cannot tolerate any feelings?

Ask Colbert if he wants to be on Dancing with the Stars.

Jan Tessier · 1 year ago

Ask him about his $500.00 haircut, and why it is that they couldn't cut it to hide his Vulcan ears.

Brenda Zannelli · 1 year ago

The guy Colbert is an ass. Open mouth, insert foot kind of ass. Look at yourself , then look at him- believe me you are are a rocket scientist! Not to mention a MUCH better person.
If the ass ask you about McCain, or Bush, turn to him and ask to NAME ONE THING BUSH HAS DONE FOR THE GOOD OF THE COUNTRY. That will shut him up. Good luck.

Rob Moir · 1 year ago

Perhaps you could make it a conversation, rather than letting him put such loaded questions to you. Ask him what his political outlook is...his position on the war, on the terrible inequality that still exists in our society,how he thinks discrimination against women, gays and lesbians, and people of color can be remedied (or if it should be?)..etc. Does he think Bush should be impeached? What is the most serious problem our people face, in his opinion? Make him come of his pedestal and share some opinions and back them up... Maybe you can force a real conversation rather than using guests like punching bags.

pelle Lowe · 1 year ago

Simply take a breath and ask the classic psych-out question: "Oh?... [you can stroke your chin like Dr. Freud here] "Why do you ask?"
That should slow him down a bit, after which you might inquire how his question serves the truth. Or not.

Tarek Khaled · 1 year ago

I suspect a question regarding Plain.
Colbert, however, assumes the role of a right winger, whereas, in fact, he is nothing but. In my view, he, in a twisted way, is always making fun of right wingers and the naive folks that buy their stories.

Michael · 1 year ago

How many patriotic Americans has Barack Obama killed since he started setting off bombs when he was eight years old?

BTW - I'm truly amazed at the animosity here towards Colbert. He's more on our side than that woman Obama beat.

Mary M · 1 year ago

Having watched the Colbert Report in the past, I find that Stephen Colbert can ask some incredibly random questions (sometimes right off the bat, as you well know). I don't think it would be possible to guess what he might ask, or what videos, if any, he chooses to focus on (seeing as he may focus on only one tiny part of any one of the many videos). As entertaining as his questions might be to the audience, they tend to take away from the already limited time that his guests have to get their point across. Therefore, I would recommend that you have your main talking points mapped out so that a few supplementary points/arguments that will really make an impact on the audience are followed by your most important message to the public. I have seen many guests try to cram in their main point right at the end since Colbert has been barraging them with questions and quips throughout the entire interview.

Good Luck! :)

Joan A. · 1 year ago

When Steven's funny (he'll be), or surprises you (he will), let yourself laugh. People who come across the best on his (and The Daily Show) are the ones who laugh & let it be funny. Try to be brief getting your "talking points" in, and let Colbert play.
I really like Jeff's idea below of using the Palin line from the debate: "I may not answer the way you want me to, but... "

Curtis Cooley · 1 year ago

He's a comedian with a very limited shtick. He's going to ask you why you hate America, or why you tell people to burn the flag, or why do you create terrorist recruitment films. It's comedy, so if you've up to it you just take his shtick even farther.

Vox Humana · 1 year ago

Robert,

Trying to nail Colbert would be akin to blaming the Holocaust on Charlie Chaplin's "Great Dictator." Remember, he is a spoof of O'Reilly, et al. Allow him to do is business, make you answers short and play along. In the end, your message will get out. Remember, underneath the character of Stephen Colbert is the REAL Stephen Colbert, and that he is on our side.

Have fun!

H.E.Larson · 1 year ago

Since I live in the world broadcast TV I don't watch much of Comedy Central, and since my computer doesn't like to play video I don't know much of The Colbert Report. Now this means nothing for when Colbert asks a dumb question say or something like, I just point out problems you make fun of them which is more important? On the John McCain thing I don't know about YouTube but he can deal with the N Vietnamese but he can't hunt and peck on a keyboard, what about voice recognition, he can't afford the cost?

Mark · 1 year ago

He might ask, "Why does Obama pal around iwth terrorists?"

Stephanie · 1 year ago

Here it is:



Alias:
Complex Question
Many Questions
Plurium Interrogationum
Translation: "many questions", Latin

Quote…
"How am I to get in?" asked Alice again, in a louder tone.
"Are you to get in at all?" said the Footman, "That's the first question, you know."

…Unquote
Source: Lewis Carroll, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, Ch. 6.

Form:
A question with a false, disputed, or question-begging presupposition.

Example:
Why should merely cracking down on terrorism help to stop it, when that method hasn't worked in any other country? Why are we so hated in the Muslim world? What did our government do there to bring this horror home to all those innocent Americans? And why don't we learn anything, from our free press, about the gross ineptitude of our state agencies? about what's really happening in Afghanistan? about the pertinence of Central Asia's huge reserves of oil and natural gas? about the links between the Bush and the bin Laden families?
Source: Mark Crispin Miller, "Brain Drain", Context, No. 9

Analysis

Exposition:
A "loaded question", like a loaded gun, is a dangerous thing. A loaded question is a question with a false or questionable presupposition, and it is "loaded" with that presumption. The question "Have you stopped beating your wife?" presupposes that you have beaten your wife prior to its asking, as well as that you have a wife. If you are unmarried, or have never beaten your wife, then the question is loaded.

Since this example is a yes/no question, there are only the following two direct answers:

"Yes, I have stopped beating my wife", which entails "I was beating my wife."
"No, I haven't stopped beating my wife", which entails "I am still beating my wife."
Thus, either direct answer entails that you have beaten your wife, which is, therefore, a presupposition of the question. So, a loaded question is one which you cannot answer directly without implying a falsehood or a statement that you deny. For this reason, the proper response to such a question is not to answer it directly, but to either refuse to answer or to reject the question.

Some systems of parliamentary debate provide for "dividing the question", that is, splitting a complex question up into two or more simple questions. Such a move can be used to split the example as follows:

"Have you ever beaten your wife?"
"If so, are you still doing so?"
In this way, 1 can be answered directly by "no", and then the conditional question 2 does not arise.

Exposure:
Since a question is not an argument, simply asking a loaded question is not a fallacious argument. Rather, loaded questions are typically used to trick someone into implying something they did not intend. For instance, salespeople learn to ask such loaded questions as: "Will that be cash or charge?" This question gives only two alternatives, thus presuming that the potential buyer has already decided to make a purchase, which is similar to the Black-or-White Fallacy. If the potential buyer answers the question directly, he may suddenly find himself an actual buyer.

janeM · 1 year ago

Robert, I love your work. I hope everyone "gets" that Colbert's show is based completely on sarcasm! Don't forget, he's really on our side!I'd ask him if he felt compelled to have you on again because of the "Pssst. Do something..." whisper at the end of your films. Maybe his guilt (of not doing anything) was slowly driving him insane...! Your films are just the TRUTH, put before us. And "truthiness" is what Colbert is all about! And ask seriously "Who are you voting for on Nov. 4th Steven?"

Bob Higgins · 1 year ago

Colbert is on your side.

He will play you for laughs.
Don't sweat it, enjoy it.

You're not on the show to save the western world or to find a cure for cancer. Its comedy, no?

I wish I could sit down and be a foil for his wit for ten minutes. As long as you have fun and show it, no harm will come to you.

Unless ... there are BEARS.

I'll be watching.

Bob Higgins
Worldwide Sawdust

Anna · 1 year ago

Steven is one of us. No need for strategy. His form of satire is powerful, entertaining and on point. Let him take the lead and play along. Enjoy the ride.

Brett · 1 year ago

Mr. Greenwald,

After watching your first appearance on Colbert's show, it is apparent that the reasons for him having you on is not for you to be able to speak the truth about the country, but to portray you in a certain way. Republicans usually don't tend to 'discuss' things very much because they would rather buy into an illusion about the way things are. So, if you attack that illusion, they get very defensive and act as if you are attacking something precious to them (which is true, the illusion is precious to them). Therefore, the more you can know about his tactics and answer his questions with questions of your own, the more you won't be able to be portrayed in a certain way...... That's what they're all about, fitting and portraying you in a way to fit their narrative of liberals trying to destroy the country. That's not going to change. The more you argue with him, the more you let him win.... Because, like OUTFOXED puts it, If they muddy the argument, they win. If they breed confusion to the argument, they 'win.' I would try very hard to not play by his rules and let him suck you into the games that he wants to play. You're above that, not in a being better than him sense, but you know your opponent. He wants to get you to react by messing with your needs for clarity and truth, sparking feelings that would react to what he says rather than trying to control the agenda of the conversation yourself.......
That's my two cents.

Brett

Sandy · 1 year ago

I think you should relax and enjoy. It seems like a lot of the posters here take him seriously. His mind is so quick and he is on our side.

brady · 1 year ago

Stephen Colbert is probably reading this, so you should avoid any of the questions listed here. The best idea is for us to list every possible question, so he wont be able to ask any of them, and then youll be safe because he will just have to stare at you menacingly.

Dave Shupp · 1 year ago

1)How come Nimitz, the ONLY five star Admiral in American History, didn't like your father or grandfather? Was it because dad ran his ship aground and wasn't court marshaled? (2)Was it because you were TOO much of a Maveric that got you shot down or just a lousy pilot? It seems all the good pilots made it back!

Deb · 1 year ago

A question for Colbert (lifted from McCain):
"Who is the real Stephen Colbert?"
Obviously, from many of the comments, viewers are confused!

Question he might ask you:
"Are you a terrorist, or do you just make videos that support them?"

Just keep in mind that Colbert hates irony and you'll be fine.

duggy dugg · 1 year ago

sample retort to steven colbert :

first mr colbert , i don't hate america ; i hate what some of our leaders are doing to
make other nation states' citizens hate us

second , unfortunately , mr colbert , inappropriate entities profoundly influence our
congress and presidency ; corporate payola [ contributions ] pac payola [ political
ngos ] comes from groups for and against numerous agendas ; foreign lobbyists
are permitted in this country ; [ i can't imagine why .... ]
for example , there is the ngo ai pac which rigorously
controls senators and representatives votes on aid to isreal ; some israelis are just
fine folks ; others are expansionist ; agressive ethnic cleansers ; spies ; cold blooded
killers [idf buldozer murder of rachel corey for example ]

third , the banking system ; monetary policy and , consequently , mr colbert , the
so called " business cycle " is profoundly influenced by the ngo : federal reserve ;
the ngo federal reserve is comprised of a number of corporate banks not all of whom
are u s banks ; for example , the B O E is a member ; the BOE is under the direct control
of the "red shield " , rothschild banking empire ; the ngo federal reserve is permitted
to issure money from thin air and lend it to congress and other banks ....at interest !
if the u s government issued the money , there would be no interest load attached ;
our national debt would not be growing due to the ngo federal reserve's interest demand ;

also , mr colbert , banks all over are allowed to loan ten million bucks if they , in fact , only
have a million bucks on hand ! ! ! ! fractional reserve banking ; any shock as to why we have
rampant inflation ; money from thin air is loaned to buy housing and depreciating cars and
the public has to pay it back with hard earned after tax dollars !

additionally , mr colbert , we attacked iraq with strong evidence the presidency had clear
cia and other reports asserting no weapons of massacre [ mass distruction ] existed !
we torture ; we kill ; we support the aggressive elements in israel with money and military;
other nations' citizens blame us for any injury they receive from the idf , radical settlers ;
expansionists etc