Los Angeles, California – Former “Daily Show” host Jon Stewart revealed that tech giant Apple interfered with his plans to interview Federal Trade Commission Chairperson Lina Khan. Stewart shared this information during a recent interview with Khan on Comedy Central. According to Stewart, Apple pushed back against the idea of him engaging in a conversation with Khan, who assumed leadership of the FTC in 2021.
Stewart expressed his desire to host Khan on a podcast, but Apple allegedly discouraged him by stating, “please don’t talk to her.” This request puzzled Stewart, who questioned Apple’s apprehension towards public discussions involving Khan. Stewart’s collaboration with Apple began in 2021 with a show titled “The Problem With Jon Stewart” on Apple TV, accompanied by a podcast. However, the partnership concluded last fall due to creative differences, leading Stewart to return as a part-time host on Comedy Central’s “Daily Show” in February.
During the interview on Comedy Central, Stewart pondered Apple’s apparent hesitance towards open dialogue, emphasizing the importance of engaging in public conversations. While Apple representatives remained silent on the matter, Khan expressed her gratitude towards Stewart for the interview via a post on X, highlighting various topics discussed during their conversation, such as reducing asthma inhaler costs and combating corporate malpractice.
Although the FTC under Khan’s leadership has not directly targeted Apple, the commission has challenged other major tech companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft in the realm of artificial intelligence. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Justice recently filed an antitrust lawsuit against Apple, accusing the tech giant of monopolizing the smartphone market. Khan, known for advocating the breakup of large tech corporations, including Apple, drew parallels between these companies and monopolies of the Gilded Age.
In conclusion, Stewart’s allegations shed light on Apple’s reluctance to engage with influential figures like Khan, prompting discussions on the tech industry’s influence and the importance of transparency in public discourse. The ongoing scrutiny faced by major tech companies underscores the significance of regulatory measures to ensure fair competition and consumer protection in the digital age.