Candidates Line Up to Visit Jon Stewart

Washington Post - United States - Four presidential candidates are lined up to visit Jon Stewart on "The Daily Show" over the next three weeks as Comedy Central's satirical news review ramps up its "Indecision 2008" coverage.

Sen. Joseph Biden, the Delaware Democrat, is first up this Wednesday. Biden appeared on "The Daily Show" last winter on the day he announced his candidacy.

Republican John McCain makes his 10th appearance on Aug. 16, followed by another Republican, former Wisconsin Gov. Tommy Thompson, on Aug. 20.

On Aug. 22, Democratic contender Barack Obama comes back to the show for a second time, his first as a declared candidate.

"It's sort of an open invitation for candidates," said Michele Ganeless, Comedy Central's executive vice president and general manager. "Jon makes these guys feel comfortable. He provides them with an opportunity to reach an audience they don't always reach, which is young men."

In a world of scripted politics, "The Daily Show" offers candidates a chance to show irreverence and a sense of humor, but brings a risk if they bomb.