The American media is currently a blur of primaries and caucuses, the all-important contests that will determine the Republican Party nominee to run against President Barack Obama in November.
But one voice of analysis is notable by its absence – at least for UK viewers. Ever since regular editions of The Daily Show were cut by More4 in favour of a once-a-week broadcast of the Global Edition, fans have missed out on many of host Jon Stewart’s satirical swipes.
In the run-up to the US going to the polls, this decision – made back in December 2010 - appears increasingly wrong-headed. And RadioTimes.com is not alone in feeling aggrieved - documentary-maker Louis Theroux, long-time chronicler of the American fringe, is also calling for The Daily Show’s return to the schedules:
“There is no show in the history of television that has been as consistently funny and as incisive, in my opinion, as The Daily Show with Jon Stewart,” he told us.
“In a crazy world it is one of the few shows that keeps me sane, with its puncturing of ludicrous public figures, official doublespeak, hypocrisy; and its commentary on the uniquely weird cultural landscape of 21st century America.
“I have been an obsessed fan for many years and I sang hosannas of gratitude when More4 began broadcasting the show - which turned to wailing lamentations after it was dumped due to low ratings.
“I am now in the sad position of having to pay to watch The Daily Show using iTunes on my computer in the kitchen, when I would like nothing more than to sit on my sofa and watch it on my television. Is this so much to ask?
“My plea has a renewed urgency as the US presidential race begins in earnest.
“The Daily Show is brilliant always but in an election year, it is something more than brilliant, it is essential.
“Please join me in demanding that More4 reinstates the full four days a week of The Daily Show.”
If you’re in agreement with Theroux and RadioTimes.com, you can register your interest in seeing The Daily Show’s return below. We will then present the results to More4 and report back with their response. So come on, people, every vote counts.