Stephen Colbert reels in another unsuspecting politician

By M&C News Jul 24, 2006, 18:35 GMT

Comedian Stephen Colbert arrives at the celebration for Time magazine\'s annual \'100 Most Influential People\', in New York City, Monday 08 May 2006. EPA/ANDREW GOMBERT

Congressman Robert Wexler says “he was just playing along with the joke when comedian Stephen Colbert prodded him in an interview to say: ‘I enjoy cocaine because it's a fun thing to do.’ ”

Colbert’s satirical show The Colbert Report on Comedy Central features a regular segment called “Better Know a District” where Colbert holds mock interviews with a specific congressperson about their district and their stands on issues.

Funnyman Colbert asked the congressman to complete this sentence: "I enjoy cocaine because ...”

Wexler looked into the camera and said, "I enjoy cocaine because it's a fun thing to do."

Colbert continued his fishhook snag play with Wexler, having him finish the thought: "I enjoy the company of prostitutes for the following reasons ... because it's a fun thing to do. If you combine the two together, it's probably even more fun."

The Palm Beach Post reports that after Wexler’s interview aired last week, he had never actually seen the show before, and agreed only at the advice of younger staffers.

Wexler told The Associated Press: "I think it's an important thing for members of Congress to be able to participate in a good-natured joke," he said. "Everyone who watches the show knows that what is being said is a joke and that it's about silly topics. I thought it was funny."

Colbert's show has caught a few members of congress off guard.  When U.S. Rep. John Mica, R-Orlando, appeared, Colbert asked about the logistics of his toupee getting through airport security. Rep. Barney Frank, D-Mass., who is openly gay, was asked what it's like to be "an openly left-handed" American.