Stewart Calls Palin a Genius: 'You Can't Underestimate This Woman'

Comedian Jon Stewart actually called Sarah Palin a genius Wednesday.

As he reviewed her performance on the "Tonight Show" the previous evening, the "Daily Show" host said, "I don't say this to a lot of comics, especially new ones, but if you had a day job, you should quit it." 

The Comedy Central star continued, "Her ability to do this well is just one more example of the genius of Sarah Palin: she can master anything."

Unfortunately, he was less pleased with Mitt Romney's performance on the "Late Show" the same evening: "I think Romney is always going to be Gore to Palin's Bush. He wants it more. He's worked harder for it. He looks the part. But he ain't gettin' it" (video embedded below the fold with partial transcript, h/t Right Scoop):

JON STEWART, HOST: Yeah, that was not bad. That was actually not bad. It was very good, as a matter of fact. It was quite good. You know, I don't say this to a lot of comics, especially new ones, but if you had a day job, you should quit it. Dive into this comedy thing fulltime. You know what? Her ability to do this well is just one more example of the genius of Sarah Palin: she can master anything. Four-year term of governor, BOOM, done in two and a half years. Standup comic: her first gig as a standup comic is the "Tonight Show." You cannot underestimate this woman.

You know who you have to feel bad for? Mitt Romney. Coincidentally, he was on the "Late Show" with David Letterman at the exact same time making his pitch to be America's conservative sweetheart. But you know what? I think Romney is always going to be Gore to Palin's Bush. He wants it more. He's worked harder for it. He looks the part. But he ain't gettin' it. [...]

Yes, yes, yes. Interesting story about your father and how much he meant to you and the inspiration that you found in him. Um, I'm sorry, Gov. Palin, would you like to show Gov. Romney how it's done?...BOOM. Hey, Romney: enjoy your lobbyist job.

Funny stuff, but it makes you wonder whether Stewart's view of Palin has actually improved, or if this was just a bit.

Stay tuned.