Trump Blames Autism on Tylenol While Americans Prep for the Rapture on TikTok | John Fugelsang

Summary

The Daily Show: Ears Edition

Episode: Trump Blames Autism on Tylenol While Americans Prep for the Rapture on TikTok | John Fugelsang
Date: September 24, 2025
Host: Jordan Klepper
Guest: John Fugelsang

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Episode Overview

This episode tackles two headline-grabbing topics with The Daily Show’s signature satirical edge:

1. Former President Trump’s new claim linking Tylenol to autism.
2. The viral “Rapture Talk” trend on TikTok, where users claim the end times are imminent.

The team also welcomes comedian and political commentator John Fugelsang for a spirited discussion about religion’s role in American politics, the true teachings of Jesus, and Fugelsang’s book A Separation of Church and Hate.

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Key Segments and Discussion Points

1. Rapture Talk: Americans Prep for the End Times

[00:48 – 02:30]

• The episode opens with Jordan Klepper ridiculing a TikTok movement claiming that the Rapture is happening imminently.
• People are reportedly selling all their possessions, as if preparing for a spiritual one-way flight.
• Klepper mocks the practicality, joking about someone selling their car and quips,

  “You’re going to heaven without a car? Good luck getting laid up there, buddy.” (02:21, Jordan Klepper)

• He also riffs on the TikTok algorithm, lamenting that instead of Rapture warnings, all he gets are power-washing videos.

2. Trump’s Autism “Plot Twist” Press Conference

[02:46 – 09:14]

• Klepper shifts to Trump’s latest press conference, where, in a break from anti-vaccine talking points, Trump blames Tylenol (acetaminophen) taken during pregnancy for autism.
• Trump struggles pronouncing “acetaminophen,” to which Klepper jokes,

  "Now, I don't want to suggest there's been some disconcerting cognitive decline, but back in 2020, that Mofo could spit out hydroxychloroquine, no problem." (04:08, Jordan Klepper)

• Trump's message lacks scientific evidence:

  “This is based on what I feel, damn it.” (09:09, Donald Trump)

• Trump further offers a dubious anecdote:

  "There are certain groups of people that don't take vaccines and don't take any pills that have no autism. Does that tell you something?" (06:07, Donald Trump)

• Citing the Amish, Trump claims they don’t experience autism—Klepper retorts with,

  "So, based on the Amish, the cure for autism could either be not taking Tylenol or being scared of a Roomba." (07:13, Jordan Klepper)

• Trump rails against the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine, advising shots be administered separately.
• Klepper lampoons Trump’s comprehension of vaccines and women’s health while mocking the notion of “vats of liquid” being pumped into babies.

3. Rapture, Satire, and Tylenol Fallout

[09:14 – 13:19]

• Michael Kosta, reporting “live” from the White House, jokes about feeling the effects—or lack thereof—of the Rapture:

  “To be honest, I haven't done any research because I sort of thought I'd be raptured by now.” (09:35, Michael Kosta)

• In an increasingly absurd sketch, Kosta, Desi Lydic, and Josh Johnson all disappear, claiming to be “raptured,” leaving Klepper alone and exasperated.
• John Fugelsang jokes,

  “This is ‘cause my mom took Tylenol.” (13:07, John Fugelsang)

4. Trump at the UN: Escalators, Wars, and Grievances

[14:02 – 18:33]

• Klepper sets the stage at the UN General Assembly, noting the import of the moment—and then recapping Trump’s pettier complaints.
• Trump opens his speech by boasting,

  “In a period of just seven months, I have ended seven unendable wars...It’s never happened before.” (15:27, Donald Trump)

• Rather than addressing global crises, Trump riffs at length about the UN’s escalator mishap and the building’s “inferior” terrazzo instead of his promised marble floors.
• Klepper sums up the tone:

  “Then you're just having a tantrum. Now your team is waiting off stage with a blankie and some apple juice.” (18:09, Jordan Klepper)

• Trump closes with:

  “Your countries are going to hell.” (18:26, Donald Trump)

5. Interview: John Fugelsang on Faith, Hypocrisy, and Political Christianity

[20:26 – 31:02]

a. Fugelsang’s Background and Motivation

[20:26 – 21:57]

• Fugelsang shares the unlikely love story of his ex-nun mother and Franciscan brother father, who raised him as a progressive Catholic.
• He notes his book aims to “take back” the Bible from those using it for “meanness and bigotry and superiority.”

b. The Real Teachings of Jesus vs. Political Christianity

[21:58 – 25:32]

• Fugelsang argues that the original message of Jesus—humility, service, uplifting the marginalized—has been hijacked.
• He traces authoritarian “Christianity” back to Rome, through the Crusades, slavery, segregation, and up to present-day right-wing movements:

  “There’s an amazing history of Christian activists, but it always manifests itself in resistance to Christian authoritarianism. And I’m sick of it, and I think people are too.” (23:35, John Fugelsang)

• He calls out the right’s reluctance to publicize Jesus’s actual (radically kind) teachings:

  "...You'll never see the right word fight to put a Jesus quote on a building, on a courthouse, or on a classroom wall. Yeah, they don't do it. They don't follow the guy. They worship him." (25:17, John Fugelsang)

c. Progressive Christians and the Frustration of “Alpha Bro” Christianity

[25:32 – 26:42]

• Fugelsang takes aim at the “Alpha Bro” version of religion, tracing its violent lineage back to the Crusades:

  “The actual teachings of the guy are as threatening to authoritarian power now as they were 2,000 years ago...” (26:15, John Fugelsang)

• He expresses hope for more Democrats to embrace and reclaim these values in American discourse.

d. Faith, Atheism, and How to Fight Political Weaponization of Religion

[26:42 – 28:36]

• Fugelsang asserts that “some of the best Christians I know are non-believers,” and encourages everyone (including atheists) to make religious conservatives argue with Jesus’s words, not just their political claims.
• He uses a musical analogy for “false advertising” Christianity:

  “If I'm in a band and I call myself a Rolling Stones cover band and I advertise that...but I only know songs by Nickelback and Vanilla Ice. I need to find a new name for my group.” (27:26, John Fugelsang)

e. The Rapture Obsession and What’s Actually (Not) in the Bible

[28:36 – 29:22]

• Fugelsang makes clear,

  “They’re going to find out that the Rapture doesn’t even appear in the Bible. Jesus says, you shall not know the hour nor the day when it’ll happen. Sorry, end timers. It’s not the end of the world.” (29:10, John Fugelsang)

f. George Harrison Story and Closing Thoughts

[29:22 – 31:02]

• Fugelsang shares a moving anecdote: his interview with George Harrison at VH1 ended up being Harrison’s final public performance, right in The Daily Show's studio.

g. Book Plug with Alliteration

• Fugelsang (with a dramatic flourish):

  “A Separation of Church and Hate. A Sane Person's Guide to Taking Back the Bible From Fundamentalist Fascists and Flock-Fleecing Frauds.” (30:56, John Fugelsang)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “This is based on what I feel, damn it.” (09:09, Donald Trump)
• “If you don't take it, it can only good happen.” (13:16, John Fugelsang, parodying Trump’s logic)
• “Some of the best Christians I know are non-believers.” (26:48, John Fugelsang)
• “They worship him. Cause that’s a lot easier than following his inconveniently woke teachings.” (25:17, John Fugelsang)
• “They’re going to find out that the rapture doesn’t even appear in the Bible.” (29:10, John Fugelsang)

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Timestamps of Key Segments

• Rapture TikTok Satire: 00:48 – 02:30
• Trump’s Tylenol-Autism Press Conference: 02:46 – 09:14
• Rapture “Live Coverage” Skits: 09:14 – 13:19
• UN General Assembly/Trump’s Escalator Rant: 14:02 – 18:33
• Interview: John Fugelsang: 20:26 – 31:02

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Episode Tone & Style

The tone is classic Daily Show: incisive, irreverent, and blending sharp satire with surprising moments of earnestness (especially during Fugelsang’s interview). Trumpisms and the week’s absurd political news provide fodder for running gags and comedic set-pieces, while Fugelsang’s segment brings a thoughtful critique to the intersection of faith and politics.

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Conclusion

Whether lampooning the week’s viral paranoia or critiquing political “Christianity,” this episode blends the outrageous with the thoughtful—reminding audiences that sometimes the best way to confront nonsense is with sharp wit and a dose of real history. John Fugelsang’s interview is a highlight, exploring how the true teachings of Jesus could, perhaps, be a remedy to the hypocrisy infusing today’s public discourse.

Transcript

[Jordan Klepper]

Thanks for selling your car to Carvana. Here's your check. Whoa. When did I get here?

[John Fugelsang]

What do you mean?

[Jordan Klepper]

I swear it was just moments ago that I accepted a great offer from Carvana online. I must have time traveled to the future. It was just moments ago.

[John Fugelsang]

We do same day pickup.

[Jordan Klepper]

Here's your check for that great offer. It is the future. It's. It's the present. And just the convenience of Carvana. Sorry to blow your mind. It's all good.

[John Fugelsang]

Happens all the time. Sell your car the convenient way to Carvana.

[Jordan Klepper]

Pick up. Times may vary and fees may apply.

[John Fugelsang]

ABC Wednesday.

[Jordan Klepper]

Shifting Gears is back. He has arisen. Tim Allen and Kat Dennings return in television's number one new comedy. What what? With a star studded premiere including Jenna Elfman, Nancy Travis and.

[John Fugelsang]

Hey, buddy.

[Jordan Klepper]

A big home improvement reunion. Welcome. Oh, boy, that guy's a tool. Shifting Gears season premiere Wednesday, 8, 7 Central on ABC and stream on Hulu. You're listening to Comedy Central. From the most trusted journalists at Comedy Central. It's America's only source for news. This is the Daily show with your host, Jordan Clover. Welcome to the Daily Show. I'm Jordan Klepper. We got so much to talk about tonight. The United nations is a total dump. None of us are going to heaven. And the big question, are you putting too much liquid into your baby? Let's get into headlines. We are living in crazy times right now. People are feeling worried and depressed. However, there is some good news. The world is ending. The end is near. At least that's what one corner of TikTok is claiming. My fellow Christians out there, I want this video to help one another. It's being called Rapture Talk. A convinced contingent of TikTok users who claim the rapture is happening today.

[John Fugelsang]

Some even claiming to be selling all their possessions. One man says he got rid of his car.

[Jordan Klepper]

I'm catching a flight to heaven in September anyway. Oh, I need the car. You're going to heaven without a car? Good luck getting laid up there, buddy. Listen, if I believed my earthly body was going to leave this worldly realm, my first reaction would not be to turn a profit on Carvana. Come September, I will stand naked before my creator. Are you Interested in a 2017 Kia Sorrento? By the way, I just want to say how unfair the TikTok algorithm is. It's giving some people a heads up about the end of the world. Mine is just all videos of guys power washing sidewalks. And while some people may or may not depart this mortal coil, for those of us left behind. There is a lot of shit we have to deal with. Chief among those, our president. Yesterday, Donald Trump held a major press conference to announce the cause of autism and also to announce that RFK Jr. Is officially a weirder color than him. Now, now, it's just not natural. Now, we've known for a while that this administration has wanted to blame autism on vaccines, but yesterday's big announcement came with a plot twist.

[Donald Trump]

First, effective immediately, the FDA will be notifying physicians at the use of. I said, well, let's see how we say that. Acetaminophen. Acetaminophen. Is that okay? Which is basically commonly known as Tylenol.

[Jordan Klepper]

Tylenol, at least you finish strong. Now, I don't want to suggest there's been some disconcerting cognitive decline, but back in 2020, that Mofo could spit out hydroxychloroquine, no problem. So everyone was waiting for Trump to blame autism on vaccines, but he zagged and blamed Tylenol, which is especially strange because nearly all health officials say there's no causal link between acetaminophen and autism. However, Trump has his own recommendation.

[Donald Trump]

Tylenol during pregnancy can be associated with a very increased risk of autism. So taking Tylenol is not good. Don't take Tylenol. Don't have your baby. Take Tylenol. Don't take Tylenol. There's no downside. Don't take it. Don't take Tylenol. But with Tylenol, don't take it. Nothing bad can happen. It can only good happen.

[Jordan Klepper]

Ask your doctor if it can only good happen for you. Trump is so pissed at Tylenol, he's gonna start bombing the pain reliever aisles at Walgreens. Joke's on you, Trump. Even missiles can't get through that plexiglass. You're gonna have to ring the customer service button like the rest of us. You can tell Trump doesn't understand what a woman goes through during pregnancy, but as a dad who didn't miss a single appointment, it's not true that only good can happen if you don't take Tylenol. Not treating a pregnant woman's fever could cause irreparable harm before the B comes out of her butt. Read a parenting book, Trump. And Trump wasn't just playing fast and loose with acetaminophen. He made sure to throw some anti vax classics in there, too.

[Donald Trump]

And by the way, I think I can say that there are certain groups of people that don't take vaccines and don't take any pills that have no autism. That have no autism. Does that tell you something that's currently. Is that a correct statement, by the way?

[Jordan Klepper]

No, but you, you had fun out there, and that's all that matters, you know, for the future. Typically, a president should check something before announcing it to the nation. I mean, this is literally how they fact check on the Joe Rogan experience. If you have sex in space, your dick will actually explode because of gravity stuff. Is that a correct statement? So as we wait for the fact check, let's hear some of the data you've collected.

[Donald Trump]

You have certain groups, the Amish as an example. They have essentially no autism. It doesn't exist with the Amish community. And they don't take all of this junk. It doesn't exist.

[Jordan Klepper]

Are the Amish the best control group for this? So, based on the Amish, the cure for autism could either be not taking Tylenol or being scared of a Roomba. Now, Trump didn't flat out say that kids shouldn't get vaccinated, but he did argue that the shots should be spread out rather than combined, and had a very unusual explanation for why there's too much liquid.

[Donald Trump]

Too many different things are going into that baby at too big a number. You have a little child, a little fragile child, and you gotta a VAT of 80 different vaccines, I guess, and they pump so much stuff into those beautiful little babies. They're pumping, it looks like they're pumping into a horse.

[Jordan Klepper]

I'm sorry, they're pumping vats of liquid into the babies like horses. Are you sure you were at the pediatrician's office and not the Kentucky Derby? They sport babies, they inject them, hammer shoes on their feet, a little man rides them around in a circle. It's inhumane. Look, to me, it doesn't sound like Donald Trump knows what he's talking about. Presumably he has done enough research on vaccines to be an expert at this point.

[Donald Trump]

The mmr, I think, should be taken separately. The mumps, measles and the three should be taken separately.

[Jordan Klepper]

Yes, the MMR vaccine, mumps, measles. I want to say, Ringo, probably forget about taking them together. Trump can't even say them together. The whole point of this press conference was to finally give answers to families that have been desperate for decades. So for everyone's sake, will you please give us some assurance that these bold claims are built on concrete evidence?

[Donald Trump]

This is based on what I feel, damn it.

[Jordan Klepper]

You know what? I never thought I'd say this, but maybe we should all do our own Research. For more on Trump's autism presser and the Tylenol fallout, we go live to the White House and Michael Kosta. Michael. Michael, what's the latest? To be honest, I haven't done any research because I sort of thought I'd be raptured by now. Come on, Michael, you don't even go to church. Well, church is for losers. But I. I'm a cool guy. And God doesn't just want to hang around with virgins and priests, you know, he needs somebody to throw back some suds and toss the old pigskin around with cool guy stuff. That's me, Mikey K. Okay. All right. So can you tell us anything about how Tylenol is reacting to all of this? Well, I'd imagine this is causing quite the headache for them. Which sucks, because they can't even take Tylenol for it. Or they can, but they risk their child.

[John Fugelsang]

Excellent.

[Jordan Klepper]

At Jeopardy. Bye. Well, Michael, wait. What do you think? The concept. Wait a minute. Wait a minute. Michael. Michael, what's happening? I can see through you. Oh, shit. It's happening. I'm getting raptured. Jordan. Jordan, it feels amazing. It's like pooping. But I'm the one getting pooped. No, no, you can't be getting raptured, Costa. You're not rapture worthy. Well, I guess God disagrees. Enjoy the Apocalypse, biiiitch. Oh, shit. OJ what are you doing up here? No, I can't believe that. This is such bullshit. All right, whatever. You know what? I don't even care. I don't even care. Let's go to the cdc. I guess I'll. I'll talk with Desi Lydic. Yes, Desi. So Desi Costa got raptured, so I guess I'll ask you about Tylenol. Who the hell cares about Tylenol? Costa got raptured. How did Costa get raptured and not me? I know, right? We're way better than him. Yeah. Jordan, he sends me porn at work, and it's not even good porn. I know. Did he send you the one with the girl and. And the golden retriever? Golden retriever? Yeah, yeah, yeah. Now he's in heaven. You know what? Screw it. If that's who gets raptured, I'd rather just stay right here with you. Thank you, Desi. I feel the same way. We can make our own heaven right here.

[Donald Trump]

Yes.

[Jordan Klepper]

Yes, that's exactly right. We are in this together, you and me. Trust me when I say I will never leave your. Oh, thank God. Oh, my God. It's happening. I thought I was gonna have to spend eternity with Jordan Klepper. No, Wait, what? What. What happened? What happened? We'. Yeah, that's before I knew I was better than you. Enjoy the apocalypse, bitch. OJ what are you doing up here? Damn it. Those bastards. Is there anyone. Is there anyone left? You know what? Okay, I guess we can go to Tylenol's corporate headquarters if Josh Johnson is still there. Josh? Josh, are you there? This is crazy. Can you believe Costa was rapturous? Yeah, I can see it.

[John Fugelsang]

He was always really nice to me.

[Jordan Klepper]

He sent me porn at work. Look, it's just you and me now, Josh. Just please stick with me. I just want one friend, you know, so. Are you kidding me? You are disappearing? What are you. Are you getting raptured too? Oh, this?

[John Fugelsang]

No, I'm not getting raptured. This is cause my mom took Tylenol.

[Jordan Klepper]

When she was pregnant with me. Jordan, it's true what they say.

[John Fugelsang]

If you don't take it, it can only good happen.

[Donald Trump]

Damn it.

[Jordan Klepper]

Just. Johnson, Judge Lyonic, Michael Kosta and O.J. simpson. I think everyone, we come back, Trump's at the UN don't go away. Mint is still $15 a month for premium wireless. And if you haven't made the switch yet, here are 15 reasons why you should. One, it's $15 a month.

[John Fugelsang]

Two, seriously, it's $15 a month. Three, no big contracts. Four, I use it. Five, my mom uses it. Are you.

[Jordan Klepper]

Are you playing me off?

[John Fugelsang]

That's what's happening, right? Okay, give it a [e-mail] Switch upfront.

[Jordan Klepper]

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[John Fugelsang]

New customer offer first three months only, then full price plan options available. Taxes and fees extra.

[Jordan Klepper]

See mintmobile.com welcome. Welcome to the Daily Show. This week is the United Nations General assembly, when all the world's leaders gather here in New York to advance humanity's noble quest to make my morning commute a goddamn nightmare. Now, this year is an especially fraught time with crises all over the world. Gaza, Ukraine, accelerating climate change, AI, the uncontrolled spread of Labubus. It goes on. Addressing these crises will require the full focus and attention of a mature leader. Luckily, that's exactly what President Trump is known for. So this morning, he arrived bright and early with the first lady striding onto the escalator for his trip to. Oh, okay. So the. All right. That's fine. Okay, so the. The escalator broke. Oh, okay. That's unfortunate. You never. Minor hiccup like that. But you know what? That's fine. A broken escalator just means extra steps on your Fitbit. Don't let it interfere with your speech. Mr. President, start by reminding them all of all the good you've done.

[Donald Trump]

In a period of just seven months, I have ended seven unendable wars. They said they were unending. You're never going to get them solved. And I did it in just seven months. It's never happened before. There's never been anything like that. Very honored to have done it.

[Jordan Klepper]

Okay, good start, Mr. Trump. Not technically true about the seven wars, but, you know, it was classy. We've got some good vibes going. Let's ride that wave. To talk about issues of global importance.

[Donald Trump]

I ended seven wars, dealt with the leaders of each and every one of these countries, and never even received a phone call from the United nations offering to help in finalizing the deal. All I got from the United nations was an escalator that, on the way up, stopped right in the middle.

[Jordan Klepper]

Okay, okay, okay, okay. You're still thinking about the escalator. Okay. That's okay. That's okay. I get it. Nothing's worse than a surprise flight of stairs. But don't forget global stage. Let's move on.

[Donald Trump]

If the first lady wasn't in great shape, she would have fallen. But she's in great shape. We're both in good shape. We both stood.

[Jordan Klepper]

Okay, okay, okay, okay. Yeah, you made a joke out of it. Broke the tension. Point made. Now, let's get back to the global crises before you start spiraling out and remembering every bad thing that's ever happened to you in this building.

[Donald Trump]

I bid on the renovation and rebuilding of this very United nations complex. I remember it so well. I said at the time that I would do it for $500 million, rebuilding everything. It would be beautiful. I used to talk about, I'm going to give you marble floors. They're going to give you Terrazza.

[Jordan Klepper]

Okay. Wow. Terrazza. I don't. I don't know what that is. Let's talk about Ukraine.

[Donald Trump]

But they decided to go in another direction, which was much more expensive at the time and which actually produce a far inferior product.

[Jordan Klepper]

I bet they regret that. If you could just skip forward to the part about Gaza, though.

[Donald Trump]

They had massive cost overruns and spent between 2 and 4 billion dollars on the building and did not even get the marble floors that I promised them. You walk on to Raza. Do you notice that?

[Jordan Klepper]

You're still mad about the escalator, aren't you? Yeah.

[Donald Trump]

Yeah, as far as I'm concerned, frankly, looking at the building and getting stuck on the escalator, they still haven't finished the job.

[Jordan Klepper]

Enough. Enough. Then you're just having a tantrum. Now your team is waiting off stage with a blankie and some apple juice. Just say the most diplomatic thing you can and let's just get out of here. You know something about how we're all in this together.

[Donald Trump]

Your countries are going to hell.

[Jordan Klepper]

Close enough. When we come back, John Fugelseg will be joining me on the show. Don't go away. Limu Emu and Doug. Here we have the Limu Emu in its natural habitat, helping people customize their car insurance and safe hundreds with Liberty Mutual.

[Donald Trump]

Fascinating.

[Jordan Klepper]

It's accompanied by his natural ally, Doug. Uh, Limu is that guy with the binoculars watching us. Cut the camera. They see us. Only pay for what you [e-mail] Liberty. Liberty. Liberty. Liberty Savings vary unwritten by Liberty Mutual Insurance Company and affiliates. Excludes Massachusetts. Imagine fast hydration combined with balanced energy. Perfectly flavored with. With zero artificial sweeteners.

[John Fugelsang]

Introducing Liquid Ivy's new energy multiplier. Sugar free.

[Jordan Klepper]

Unlike other energy drinks, you know, the ones that make you feel like you're glitching, it's made with natural caffeine and electrolytes so you get the boost without the burnout. Liquid IV's new energy multiplier. Sugar free hydrating energy. Tap the banner to learn more. Welcome back to the Daily Show. My guest tonight is a comedian, host of Tell Me Everything on Sirius XM Progress and author of the New York Times bestseller Separation of Church and Hate. Please welcome John Fugelsang. Sit down. Sit down. Stop. New York Times bestseller. That must feel nice.

[John Fugelsang]

Yeah. My parole officer calls it a good start.

[Jordan Klepper]

Is that good? Yes. You're gonna get back into the swing of things before you know it.

[John Fugelsang]

I know. Yeah. Tell me about it. It's recidivism, but I'm thrilled about it. You know, this book took about 12 years to sell. I had people telling me it's third rail Christianity and politics and using Jesus against the right wing. No, no, no. And it's really gratifying to see people actually respond.

[Jordan Klepper]

Yeah.

[John Fugelsang]

Because people are tired of, I think, what I think the Bible calls revoltingly fake. Christianity. Yes. I think.

[Jordan Klepper]

I mean, you dive right into that. Right. You say. Well, you say you wrote this book because your parents broke a promise with God.

[John Fugelsang]

They did.

[Jordan Klepper]

That's a hell of a way to write a book.

[John Fugelsang]

Yeah. I'm technically not supposed to Be here. My mother was a nun from the segregated south. She went into the convent right out of high school. They put her through nursing school, sent her off to work with lepers in Malawi, Africa. But before they sent her to Africa, they put her in Brooklyn. My father was a Franciscan brother who taught history to Catholic boys in Brooklyn. He wore the brown robes and the rope belt and walked amongst the people like the lost Jedi of Flatbush. My father the brother, met my mother the sister.

[Jordan Klepper]

I was gonna say. Yeah, your upbringing is a premise.

[John Fugelsang]

I know, right?

[Jordan Klepper]

At least a shaggy dog story.

[John Fugelsang]

He fell madly in love. He eventually got her to leave after 10 years of platonic friendship. And they tried to raise us to be progressive, free thinking Catholics. And I do comedy because I can't afford the therapy. I so de.

[Jordan Klepper]

So why write this book?

[John Fugelsang]

I wrote this book because I got tired of seeing my parents faith used as a cloaking device for meanness and bigotry and superiority. Jesus movement was about humility. It was about service to others. It was about uplifting the marginalized, not about total right wing domination of the school board. And I wrote this book for believers and atheists. Anyone who's gonna have to deal with a far right wing mean Christian nationalist or fundamentalist in their job, in their home, in their government, in their social media feeds. I think they say the largest growing religious group are Mormons or none of the above. I think it's people who were raised religious and now consider themselves spiritual because they're sick of the hypocrisy of men in dresses and funny hats.

[Jordan Klepper]

Now do you see a breaking point? Like where do you see these, the teachings of Jesus, the biblical teachings shifting over to just being a political ploy.

[John Fugelsang]

I mean, when Rome took over, really? I mean, that's what we're going back that far? Well, if you want to go back to when it's stopping an oppressed movement of the brown skinned Jewish carpenter about love and empathy and it became an imperial religion that got to beat up on smaller minorities and pagans and go invade and kill Jews and kill Muslims in the Crusades, all of which was a total violation of Jesus. And the whole history of Christianity is this authoritarian power, right? But it's always the Jesus followers who resist. So you got the Crusades, St. Francis quits and preaches non violence. You got Columbus and the doctrine of Discovery and they're raping the Tainu people. And it's the Catholic priest Bartolomeo de Las Casas. First act of protest by a white person in this hemisphere. And it was against what Columbus was doing. Slavery was propped up by Christianity, but it was Christ followers like Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman and the Quakers who pushed back segregation. Propped up by Christianity. Dr. King fights back. And how many people have taught their parents and grandparents out of so much homophobia in the past 30 years? There's an amazing history of Christian activists, but it always manifests itself in resistance to Christian authoritarianism. And I'm sick of it. And I think people are too. And if the Democratic Party's not gonna use the Bible and the media's afraid to touch it, then it's gonna be up to all of us asking our right wing loved ones, what Jesus teaching does Donald Trump and Maga fight for? Cause I haven't actually found it yet.

[Jordan Klepper]

Yeah, why do you think that is? You know, you articulate the teachings of Jesus as inherently progressive teachings.

[John Fugelsang]

Word of got him killed.

[Jordan Klepper]

Yeah. Yeah. Now why do you think the left isn't able to utilize that?

[John Fugelsang]

I wish I knew. Because there's so many progressive Christians who pay attention to what the guy actually says. You look at Matthew 25, right? That's Jesus giving his marching orders the night he's arrested. It's the judgment of nations. He says, I will gather individuals and nations. This is the whole. I was a stranger and you took me in. I was hungry and you fed me. He gives four criteria for what Christians or a Christian society will have to do. And it's to individuals and nations. And it's take care of the poor, take care of the sick, welcome the stranger, and be kind to those in prison. Nothing about screaming at women outside clinics. Nothing about being mean to trans kids. Nothing about believing in a talking snake. Jesus gives his marching orders right there.

[Jordan Klepper]

Where is. Where is that stuff? That's in Genesis, right?

[John Fugelsang]

That's in Genesis. Yeah, but it's why you'll never see the right word fight to put a Jesus quote on a building, on a courthouse, or on a classroom wall. Yeah, they don't do it. They don't follow the guy. They worship him. Cause that's a lot easier than following his inconveniently woke teachings.

[Jordan Klepper]

What? You talk about this Alpha Bro movement that's happening in the Christ world.

[John Fugelsang]

I trace that straight from the Crusades up to Pete Hegseth's humiliating tattoo the Days of Old.

[Jordan Klepper]

Now you've gone too far. Now that is blasphemous right there.

[John Fugelsang]

Well, you know what? Secretary of Jagermeister thinks it's all about the violence. God wills it. That's what they said when they were waging violence against Muslims and Jews in the Crusades. The opposite of glamorous, unsexy Jesus who commands us to love our enemies, turn the other cheek. He also gets around to opposing the death penalty. He tells you don't trust people who pray in public to be seen. He tells you to pay your damn taxes. I mean this guy could not run for office in the state of Louisiana, but he's every bit, whether he's real or not, atheist. This book's for you too. Whether he's a real guy or the original hippie or the original innocent brown skinned man executed by the state, the actual teachings of the guy are as threatening to authoritarian power now as they were 2,000 years ago. And I keep waiting for the Democratic party. I mean Buttigieg does it. James Talarico in Texas is doing some great stuff. I want to see more because I'm sick and tired of seeing my parents faith used as a cloaking device for meanness.

[Jordan Klepper]

Now what do you say to the atheist or the agnostic? I'm somebody who doesn't believe those stories.

[John Fugelsang]

And I believe in atheists, thank you very much. Some of the best Christians I know are non believers.

[Jordan Klepper]

Well, there you are. Well, the people who are sickened by this conversation, dominating, dominating the larger conversation. They see what's happening on the right and how it's being utilized, how it is being weaponized in these ways. It feels like it takes up so much space in the political conversation or can. Like how do you balance that for a progressive movement that both needs to engage with people who believe in Christianity and believe in faith and see how important that is, but also who are frustrated by the ways in which it's weld and believe that this book is a work of fiction that should be on the shelf along with it.

[John Fugelsang]

And it doesn't matter if it is a work of fiction. It doesn't matter. I mean this is the book we've all agreed on. This is the book they're using, this is the book they are using to force a very narrow Jesus free version of Christianity into our lives, our public schools, our government. That's the Seven Mountain Mandate. And they're not fighting for anything Jesus actually talked about. Like if I'm in a band and I call myself a Rolling Stones cover band and I advertise that I'm a Rolling Stones cover band, but I only know songs by Nickelback and Vanilla Rice. I need to find a new name for my group. And so I got again, like it's up to all of Us, you know, make them argue with the Bible. I have this happen all the time on SiriusXM. Take immigration like you don't have to fight about this. God commands us to welcome the stranger. All throughout the Hebrew scriptures, God says we have to treat the alien as one of our own. His son Jesus shows up whether it's real or not, and commands us, individuals and nations, to welcome the stranger. So my question to Uncle Racist is, why should I listen to you and Donald Trump and ignore God and Jesus? You don't need to fight these people. They can fight Jesus and God, and this book hopefully will set you up to do it.

[Jordan Klepper]

No? I hate to point it out, yes, but today's Rapture Day.

[John Fugelsang]

Oh, I know, I know. By the way, is Koster all right? Because that actually is a side effect of Ozempic.

[Jordan Klepper]

Is that what's happening right there? Easy, people. He doesn't like to talk about that.

[John Fugelsang]

I mean, people love their. They love the Rapture.

[Jordan Klepper]

Jordan, do you feel left out? Shouldn't you be up there drinking my ties right now?

[John Fugelsang]

I know a lot of apocaholics out there, and they're really addicted to the end times because Jesus inconvenient teachings and commandments on how we're supposed to treat each other are a little too much work and they'd rather be behind God's velvet rope. They're so sure that they go there for the party, but they're going to find out that the rapture doesn't even appear in the Bible. Jesus says, you shall not know the hour nor the day when it'll happen. So, I'm sorry, end timers. It's not the end of the world.

[Jordan Klepper]

Oh, well, you're not watching the same news I am. Apparently. I will say something I do believe in, and I know you do as well, is music. And you wore this shirt. Tell me about what is special about this shirt.

[John Fugelsang]

Oh, man, this is a special. Okay, so this shirt is for George Harrison's record label. He started in the 70s, Dark Horse Records. And my first job as a young comedian in broadcasting was being a VJ for VH1. They hired me to be the funny guy, but I wound up being the classic rock nerd. And one day I got to sit with George Harrison and Ravi Shankar. He came in to promote an album he had produced, and I was the biggest George Harrison fiend. I was raised Catholic and I so admired how he went deeper into his spirituality. And so I got to interview him and he was going to stay for 10 minutes. I was such a geek. I was making terrible. Rick Astley jokes. He stayed for four hours. We gave him a guitar. He played four songs. It wound up being the last public performance he ever did on camera. He was diagnosed with cancer two months later. And I don't know if y' all know this, but that final performance by George Harrison happened in this very studio, in this room. George Harrison gave his last televised performance right here. And so coming back, every time I'm back in this building, I always want to say thank you to him because he gave me so much about to learn about spirituality.

[Jordan Klepper]

I love it. That's. That is wonderful. Well, the book, it is a great read. And if you want to or converse with your, converse with your more conservative.

[John Fugelsang]

Folks, you don't have to call them an immigrant hating homophobe. Show them Jesus wasn't an immigrant.

[Jordan Klepper]

Use Jesus to win your arguments.

[John Fugelsang]

Can I give the full title?

[Jordan Klepper]

Give me the full title.

[John Fugelsang]

A Separation of Church and Hate. A Sane Person's Guide to Taking Back the Bible From Fundamentalist Fascists and Flock Fleecing Frauds.

[Jordan Klepper]

Oh, look at that. Look at that alliteration. It's available now. John Fugeltsafe. We're going to take a quick break. Be right back after this.

[John Fugelsang]

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[Jordan Klepper]

Parents can send their kids money and.

[John Fugelsang]

Track their spending and saving while kids build money, confidence and skills in fun ways. Start your risk free Greenlight trial [e-mail].

[Jordan Klepper]

Spotify that's greenlight.com Spotify.

[John Fugelsang]

This episode is brought to you by FXX and Hulu. An all new season of Futurama is back. Blending heartfelt moments with razor sharp humor while accidentally saving the day. The Planet Express crew is back defying gravity and common sense. From the creator of The Simpsons comes 10 new episodes where the romance is hotter, the threats are bigger and the action hits harder. Don't miss the all new season of future all drama. Watch it Mondays on FXX or streaming on Hulu.

[Jordan Klepper]

That's our show for tonight. Now here it is. Here he also takes on the UN when he makes the case for the importance of his cr. For the importance of his. We'll work out these audio issues. Okay. We appear to still be having those audio issues.

[John Fugelsang]

All right, we're done.

[Jordan Klepper]

Okay. All right. We tried again explore more shows from the Daily Show Podcast universe by searching the Daily Show. Wherever you get your podcasts, watch the Daily show weeknights at 1110 Central on Comedy Central and stream full episodes anytime on Paramount. Plus, this has been a Comedy Central podcast for a limited time at McDonald's, get a Big Mac Extra Value meal for $8. That means two all beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions on a sesame seed bun and medium fries and a drink. We may need to change that jingle. Prices and participation may vary.