The Senator Is Rude To Mr Rogers. By The End Of His Speech, He's In Awe Of Him

February 20, 2017

Mr. Rogers is one of the best things to ever happen to public television.

On May 1, 1969, Fred Rogers appeared before the US Senate Commerce Committee requesting funds to help support the growth of a new concept: national public television.

The Subcommittee chairman, Senator John Pastore (D-RI), was unfamiliar with Fred Rogers, and is initially abrasive toward him. Over the course of Rogers' 6 minutes of testimony, Pastore's demeanor gradually transitions to one of awe and admiration as Rogers speaks.