Trevor Noah Debated Tomi Lahren And Everybody Won | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Politics and Activism

Trevor Noah Debated Tomi Lahren And Everybody Won

What happened when one of the most popular liberals debated one of the most popular conservatives? Hint, hint- progress.

14
Trevor Noah Debated Tomi Lahren And Everybody Won
Comedy Central

Two weeks ago America was shocked by the victory of former president candidate Donald Trump. Liberals were (and perhaps still are) devastated by what they deemed a “victory for hate”. Conservatives, primed for a rigged outcome, were energized by the result. Trump’s victory has given way to more extreme polarization and continued villainization of both sides by the other. Pages like “Trump Day 1” emerged to document instances of racial and cultural abuse, setting the social media world even more abuzz with political angst.

But political angst in the media reached an all time high on Wednesday when Trevor Noah had conservative sensation, Tomi Lahren, on The Daily Show. What transpired was heated, yet strange debate. Both stars stepped slightly out of character. Lahren abandoned her usual shouting tenor for the reasonable but glib tone of a true social media starlet, and Noah gave up his customary unforgiving sarcasm for comforting reassurances of true curiosity.

At times, the conversation succinctly illustrated the divisions between the conservative and liberal positions. When discussing Black Lives Matter Lahren began by saying she thought the movement started with good intentions, but has since been hijacked by people of color who advocate violence against white people and police. She then lapsed into the common conservative defense against allegations of racism- “I don’t see color.” Instead of taking her down the intellectual rabbit hole that is implicit bias, Noah latched onto her comparison of BLM to the KKK. The entire time Noah never brought up the continuous public hangings and burnings of black Americans by the KKK and how those actions differed extremely from the actions of BLM. Even when Lahren made the interesting comment “I choose not to make myself a victim” Noah failed to point out having a choice about one’s victimhood is in itself a privilege most do not possess. Ultimately, the two did a lot of talking in circles… and that’s okay.

While the show was entertaining as hell, America should do more than just sit idly by being entertained - they should take notes. Noah extended his popularity as a very open and mainstream liberal to someone who has been shunned by traditional outlets of television and print media. Lahren gracefully allowed herself to be the interviewee, never attempting to dominate the dialogue or disrespect her host, and spoke with vulnerability about the rural Americans she believes she represents.

Noah and Lahren not only sat down at a table together, which these days can seem like a true

miracle for conservatives and liberals, they kept villainization to a minimal. They endeavored to listen to each other by setting aside their egos. And to a country obsessed with winning, it should excite everyone that their boldness is a victory for us all.
Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

16692
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

7157
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

5269
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

4609
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments