Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico claimed that the Federal Communications Commission refused to air his interview with Stephen Colbert, attributing it to efforts by Donald Trump to prevent a Democratic flip in Texas. CBS clarified that it provided legal guidance on the FCC's equal-time rule, leading the show to release the interview on YouTube instead of broadcast. The controversy highlights tensions in the ongoing Texas Senate primaries.
On February 17, 2026, James Talarico, a probable Democratic nominee for the Texas Senate, posted on social media: “This is the interview Donald Trump didn’t want you to see. His FCC refused to air my interview with Stephen Colbert. Trump is worried we’re about to flip Texas.” Talarico, who has received endorsements from figures like Joe Rogan, escalated the claim at a campaign rally on February 18, stating that the FCC “colluded with corporate media executives at CBS … But I think it’s safe to say that their plan backfired.”
The interview in question was conducted for “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.” On the same day as Talarico's post, Colbert addressed the issue on air, explaining the FCC's Equal Time Rule, which applies to broadcast television and requires equal airtime for opposing candidates during elections. He noted a long-standing exception for news and talk show interviews but referenced a January 21, 2026, letter from FCC Chairman Brendan Carr considering the removal of that exception for shows deemed partisan.
CBS issued a statement clarifying: “THE LATE SHOW was not prohibited by CBS from broadcasting the interview with Rep. James Talarico. The show was provided legal guidance that the broadcast could trigger the FCC equal-time rule for two other candidates, including Rep. Jasmine Crockett, and presented options for how the equal time for other candidates could be fulfilled. THE LATE SHOW decided to present the interview through its YouTube channel with on-air promotion on the broadcast rather than potentially providing the equal-time options.” This decision occurred amid recent FCC scrutiny, including a February 7, 2026, letter of inquiry to ABC regarding “The View,” which heightened caution among networks.
In the interview, Talarico discussed his faith, stating: “Jesus gave us two commandments: Love God and love neighbor. And there was no exception to that second commandment. Love thy neighbor, regardless of race or gender or sexual orientation or immigration status or religious affiliation. And it’s why I have fought so hard for the separation of church and state in the state capital in Texas.” He also praised Colbert, saying, “You have really shown people in this country what Christianity should be.”
Democratic lawmakers reacted, with Rep. Darren Soto posting on February 17, 2026: “FCC Chair Brendan Carr’s reign on unlawful censorship continues. This time he’s blocking Democratic candidates. @EnergyCommerce Dems will be investigating this outrage. A reckoning is coming.”
The incident unfolds during competitive Texas Senate primaries. On the Democratic side, Rep. Jasmine Crockett leads Talarico in polls. Republicans see Sen. John Cornyn facing Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and Rep. Wesley Hunt.
