John Tabacco, a Staten Island native and host of Newsmax’s “Wise Guys,” fired back at comedian Jon Stewart after being mocked for his Italian heritage. Stewart joked about Tabacco’s last name during a segment, suggesting it sounded fake and comparing his Newsmax commentary to “anus metaphors.” Tabacco called the bit funny but questioned why Stewart would target his real Italian name.
Tabacco emphasized pride in his roots, saying, “You don’t do that to a guy from Staten Island.” He pointed out Stewart’s decision to use a stage name—Jon Leibowitz—instead of his legal surname. “Why is he masquerading as an Anglo person?” Tabacco asked, accusing Stewart of hiding his own heritage while mocking others.
The clash highlights growing tensions over political correctness and cultural pride. Conservatives argue that attacks on traditional identities reveal liberal hypocrisy. Tabacco’s supporters see his response as a stand against elitist ridicule of working-class values. Newsmax viewers praised his defiance, calling it a win for everyday Americans.
Stewart’s jokes coincided with criticism of Trump’s new tariffs, which Tabacco defended as “short-term pain for long-term gain.” He noted the stock market’s partial recovery, suggesting the policies would strengthen the economy. “Jon Stewart doesn’t know it yet, but he’s gonna get a tall glass of shut-up juice,” Tabacco quipped, echoing Trump’s combative style.
Italian-American groups rallied behind Tabacco, condemning Stewart’s remarks as disrespectful. They argue such jokes perpetuate stereotypes and undermine cultural pride. Conservatives see this as part of a broader pattern where the left dismisses heartland values while claiming moral superiority.
Newsmax doubled down on its support for Tabacco, touting his show’s popularity and his roots as a “proud son of a NYPD officer.” The network framed the feud as a battle between coastal elites and authentic Americans. “Wise Guys” fans praised Tabacco’s bluntness, saying it reflects Staten Island’s no-nonsense spirit.
Tabacco’s response resonates with Trump’s base, which views mockery of their leaders as attacks on their way of life. By standing his ground, Tabacco embodies the conservative pushback against perceived liberal condescension. His message is clear: pride in heritage and policy wins matter more than late-night punchlines.
The showdown underscores a cultural divide. While Stewart’s comedy leans progressive, Tabacco’s defiance energizes conservatives tired of being caricatured. As Trump’s policies face scrutiny, supporters see figures like Tabacco as vital voices defending their values—and their names—from coastal ridicule.
