Thousands turn out for comedians’ election rally

Stewart opened the rally by declaring that “10 million” people showed up, representing all ethnic groups in America.

“It is a perfect demographic sampling of the American people,” said the Daily Show host, who had President Obama on his show this week.

“As you know, if you have too many white people at your rally, then your cause is racist, but if you have too many people of colour at your rally, then you must be asking for something: special rights — like eating in restaurants or piggy back rides — something that we as a society are not ready to give,” he added.

The rally was called in reaction to the right wing Rally to Restore Honor two months ago, which was organised by conservative talk show host Glenn Beck.

The Comedy Central hosts avoided referring to the battle between Democrats and Republicans for control of Congress in Tuesday’s elections.

Who Knows Who: Jon Stewart rally - bigger than a tea party?

But Stewart took on a left-leaning persona advocating a “return to sanity,” while Colbert called for a “return to fear”.

Stewart introduced Yusuf Islam, formerly known as Cat Stevens, to sing his 1970s hit, “Peace Train,” only to be interrupted by Colbert, who brought on metal rocker legend Ozzy Osborne to sing his 1980s hit, “Crazy Train.” They later introduced the Ojays, who sang “Love Train”.

The show was opened by recording star John Legend, who performed at an inaugural concert for President Barack Obama in January 2009 and Philadelphia hip-hop/funk band The Roots.

The Glenn Beck rally in August, which also featured 2008 Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin, drew many people associating themselves with the Tea Party.