The line between late-night entertainment and political advocacy is blurring, and Stephen Colbert’s show is at the center of the controversy. A recent interview with Texas state Rep. James Talarico, posted online despite network warnings, has ignited a debate about fairness and the rules governing broadcast media.
CBS cautioned Colbert against releasing the interview, citing the Federal Communications Commission’s “equal time” rule. This rule demands broadcasters provide equal opportunity for all legally qualified candidates. Colbert dismissed the concern as “crap,” and the interview remained publicly available, fueling accusations of partisan bias.
Critics point to a stark imbalance in Colbert’s guest list. Washington Examiner senior writer Joe Concha argues the show has become a de facto “super PAC” for Democrats, hosting a steady stream of Democratic politicians while largely excluding Republican voices. Liz Cheney stands as a notable, and almost singular, exception.
Concha contends that the show abandoned comedy long ago, transforming into a platform for Democratic candidates. He suggests the network would be better off ending the program immediately, labeling Colbert a “one big headache.” The situation highlights a growing concern about the influence of late-night shows in the political arena.
The interview appears to have provided a significant boost to Talarico’s campaign. He announced on social media that his campaign raised $2.5 million in donations following the Colbert appearance, demonstrating the potential impact of such platforms on fundraising efforts.
Talarico is vying for the Democratic nomination in the 2026 Texas Senate race, facing competition from Rep. Jasmine Crockett. On the Republican side, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and Rep. Wesley Hunt are both seeking to replace the long-serving Sen. John Cornyn.
As early voting in the Texas primary elections commenced this week, with Election Day scheduled for March 3rd, the debate over media fairness and political endorsements continues to resonate. The case of Colbert’s interview serves as a potent example of the challenges facing broadcasters in a highly polarized political landscape.
