Story at a glance
- Stewart was on Capitol Hill on Wednesday advocating for legislation that would make it easier for veterans exposed to toxic substances to access Veterans Affairs benefits.
- “These individuals who volunteered to fight in these wars are now fighting their own government,” Stewart said during a news conference.
- In a Wednesday night tweet, Hannity spoke out in agreement with Stewart.
Conservative Fox News host Sean Hannity and comedian Jon Stewart are finally agreeing on something.
On Wednesday, Stewart joined House lawmakers on Capitol Hill to advocate for legislation that would make it easier for veterans exposed to toxic substances to access Veterans Affairs benefits.
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Millions of veterans have developed long-term health issues such as respiratory problems and cancers after being exposed to toxic burn pits over the years during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Legislation introduced by lawmakers this week would require the Department of Veterans Affairs to presume certain illnesses are linked to exposure to the burn pits and remove the burden of proof from veterans, according to The Washington Post.
Stewart urged lawmakers to pass the legislation Wednesday.
“These individuals who volunteered to fight in these wars are now fighting their own government,” Stewart said during a news conference.
“Defense contractors can’t view the U.S. Congress as Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory, while veterans are back there like Oliver with a bowl of gruel asking, ‘Please, sir, may I have some more?’ It’s bullshit and it’s got to stop. And if these bills can finally end this cycle for veterans … then we have to get this done,” he said.
In a Wednesday night tweet, Hannity spoke out in agreement with Stewart.
“Don’t often agree with Jon Stewart. He’s right on this. It’s total bullshit. Help our vets. Republicans need to own this,” he said.
According to The Washington Post, the legislation could result in providing health care to about 3.5 million veterans.
Stewart has advocated on behalf of 9/11 first responders who were exposed to toxins on the scene of the terrorist attack.
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