Last Week Tonight host John Oliver's elation upon winning the Emmy for Outstanding Scripted Variety Series was short-lived, as Oliver learned backstage that former President Donald Trump had just won the Iowa caucuses on the road for the GOP nomination for the White House.
The news was delivered to Oliver during an interview with Entertainment Tonight's Nischelle Turner, and his reaction was a blend of humor and resignation.
He said:
“Thanks very much for taking this magical moment and reminding me that joy is ephemeral, pain is forever. I’m glad I heard it first on ET.”
He then quipped, "This is going to be a fun year" before theatrically dropping his microphone and walking off.
You can see Oliver's reaction in the video below.
John Oliver on 8th Emmy Win and Donald Trump's Iowa Caucus Victory (Exclusive)youtu.be
Oliver wasn't the only one who was unpleased with the news—many took to social media to express their displeasure.
Trump enjoyed a 30-point lead over Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who secured second place with 21 percent support. Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley—who served as the Ambassador to the United Nations during Trump's presidency—claimed the third position with 19 percent support.
Trump's win in Iowa on Monday was in line with expectations, as pre-caucus polls consistently positioned him as the frontrunner in the state. The margin of his victory reflected a notable improvement in his standing with Iowa's predominantly White, evangelical Republican electorate since the 2016 caucus, which he lost to Ted Cruz, but still represents his inability to capture much more than half of those participating in the caucus.
Nationally, Trump continues to hold a commanding position among the Republican base. According to a recent CBS News/YouGov poll conducted among likely GOP primary voters, a resounding 69 percent expressed support for Trump if the election were held today. In stark contrast, DeSantis secured 14 percent support, and Haley trailed with 12 percent.
