What to know about the ‘equal time’ rule Stephen Colbert says led CBS to pull his Talarico interview

Associated Press (AP)EN 4 min read 100% complete by By MEG KINNARDFebruary 17, 2026 at 10:53 PM

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long article 4 min

Stephen Colbert stated that CBS pulled his interview with Texas Senate candidate James Talarico due to concerns about violating the "equal time" rule. This rule requires broadcast stations to offer equal airtime to political candidates. Colbert referenced the pulled interview on his show, later posting it online. CBS stated that Colbert's show received legal guidance regarding the broadcast. The FCC, under the Trump administration, has been scrutinizing programs like Colbert's, suggesting they may be partisan. This has led to a debate about media outlets' political coverage obligations.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Los Angeles 30% Jasmine Crockett 40% Federal Communications Commission 60% Texas ×360% Trump administration ×260% CBS ×270% James Talarico ×280% Stephen Colbert ×790%

Keywords

equal time rule 100% political coverage 80% stephen colbert 70% cbs 70% federal communications commission 60% james talarico 60% trump administration 50% broadcast stations 50% late-night show 40%

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Associated Press (AP)

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