Colbert-CBS Interview Block Sparks Debate Over FCC Equal-Time Rule
TL;DR Summary
Colbert says CBS blocked airing an interview with Texas state Rep. James Talarico to avoid triggering the FCC’s equal-time rule; CBS cites legal guidance, while the interview remains on The Late Show’s YouTube channel, which isn’t bound by the rule. The equal-time rule dates to 1927 and has bona fide news exemptions, but a Trump-era reinterpretation by Brendan Carr tightened requirements for online records. Critics, including FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez, call the move censorship and say it pressures broadcasters; the FCC did not respond to requests for comment.
- What to know about the "equal time" rule at heart of Colbert, CBS fight Axios
- Colbert Slams Trump Administration After CBS Pulls Talarico Interview The New York Times
- Censorship Comes for Stephen Colbert The Atlantic
- Stephen Colbert says CBS lawyers pulled James Talarico interview as early voting begins in Texas AP News
- Stephen Colbert says CBS didn't air interview out of fear of FCC NBC News
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