On a recent episode of CBS's "The Late Show," host Stephen Colbert disclosed that a planned guest appearance by Texas state representative James Talarico, a Democratic politician, was suddenly canceled by the network due to external pressure. Colbert stated he received a call from the network's lawyer, informing him that the segment couldn't be aired, which he described as an unusual move reflecting the current political pressures affecting media operations. Talarico is viewed as a promising young candidate for the upcoming Senate elections in Texas, a traditionally Republican stronghold.

The situation draws attention to the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) new ruling, which requires that media outlets treat all electoral candidates equally, including traditional talk shows that previously enjoyed exemptions from such regulations. Colbert pointed out that this change, instigated under the Trump administration with the newly appointed chairperson, has significantly impacted how broadcast content is managed, creating a chilling effect on free expression within media.

The episode in which Talarico was supposed to appear ultimately featured only actress Jennifer Garner as a guest, sparking conversations about media suppression and electoral fairness. Despite the restrictions, Colbert conducted an interview with Talarico, publishing it on YouTube, thereby maintaining a platform for political discourse despite the network's limitations. This incident seems to be part of a broader trend of increased censorship and self-regulation within American television during politically charged periods.