Jon Stewart recently learned about how inefficient the government can be through a widely-shared video where journalist Ezra Klein explained the challenging process of seeking funding from the Build Back Better plan initiated by former President Joe Biden.
The focus of their discussion was on a $42 billion initiative for expanding broadband access, a part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that Biden approved in November 2021.
Klein highlighted that more than three years had passed, yet the outcomes were far from impressive. Despite the launch of a massive $42 billion program, no one had been connected to the Internet as intended.
“End of the process, meaning they’ve actioned it? They’ve built it?” a hopeful Stewart replies.
“No, no, of course not. I didn’t mean they built it, John. Sorry, I confused you,” Klein replied. “They just got to the point where, in theory, they could get the money to build it.”
What follows is Klein’s reasonably detailed explanation of the absurd 14-step process for applying for broadband expansion funding.
Jon Stewart screams ‘OMFG’ and is rendered speechless after hearing all 14 steps to apply for ‘Build Back Better’ funding:
Ezra Klein: “We have to issue the notice funding opportunity within 180 days that’s step one.
Step Two: States who want to participate must submit a letter… pic.twitter.com/n2B3knnNY8
— Eric Abbenante (@EricAbbenante) March 28, 2025
