Has The FCC's Media Regulation Outlived Its Purpose? Colbert's 'Equal Time' Flap, Explained

Has The FCC's Media Regulation Outlived Its Purpose? Colbert's 'Equal Time' Flap, Explained

Stephen Colbert says CBS lawyers pulled his interview with Texas state Rep. James Talarico over concerns about the FCC’s “Equal Time Rule.” So what exactly is that rule — and why is it suddenly back in the headlines? Michael speaks with Associated Press national politics reporter Meg Kinnard to break down the difference between the Equal Time Rule and the long-defunct Fairness Doctrine — and why the FCC under Chairman Brendan Carr appears to be taking a fresh look at enforcement. Does the Equal Time Rule apply to late-night comedy shows? Why could Colbert air the interview on YouTube but not on broadcast television? And if this rule is enforced, what does it mean for terrestrial radio talk show hosts like Sean Hannity and others? After his conversation with Kinnard, Michael has a lively conversation with the audience about free speech, fairness, media silos, and whether the marketplace — not Washington — should decide. Original air date 19 February 2026. Like what you're hearing? Please rate, review, and share this podcast, and to hear more, listen to The Michael Smerconish Program on SiriusXM. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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Inside the War Room with Admiral Stavridis: How Presidents Decide to Strike

Inside the War Room with Admiral Stavridis: How Presidents Decide to Strike

Is the United States on the brink of striking Iran? Michael is joined by Admiral James Stavridis, former Supreme Allied Commander of NATO, to break down President Trump’s options—from diplomacy and cy...

23 Feb 25min

Today's Poll Question: Should the FCC Enforce “Equal Time”? The Colbert Controversy Explained

Today's Poll Question: Should the FCC Enforce “Equal Time”? The Colbert Controversy Explained

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Should licensed broadcast radio and television stations have to give equal time to competing political candidates?" A Stephen Colbert interview with Texas Sen...

23 Feb 14min

Princess Diana’s Confidant on Prince Andrew’s Arrest—and the Palace Fallout

Princess Diana’s Confidant on Prince Andrew’s Arrest—and the Palace Fallout

As mentioned in this episode, listen to Book Club With Michael Smerconish: Andy Webb, author of "DIANARAMA."    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our ...

20 Feb 22min

Today's Poll Question: Is Swearing in Politics Refreshing—or Just Overdone?

Today's Poll Question: Is Swearing in Politics Refreshing—or Just Overdone?

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Is the use of profanity in politics refreshing or overdone?" From a new Illinois Senate ad repeating “F Trump” to a long list of Democrats and Republicans cas...

20 Feb 13min

Today's Poll Question: Why--Or Why Not--Should The U.S. Strike Iran?

Today's Poll Question: Why--Or Why Not--Should The U.S. Strike Iran?

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "The U.S. should strike Iran: a) To eliminate its nuclear capability, b) To change its leadership, c) Both, d) Neither." With U.S. aircraft carriers deployed a...

19 Feb 11min

Mark Halperin Ranks 2028 Democrats: Newsom #1, Shapiro Rising, AOC Slips?

Mark Halperin Ranks 2028 Democrats: Newsom #1, Shapiro Rising, AOC Slips?

Mark Halperin joins Michael to rank the top Democratic contenders for 2028 — and the results may surprise you. Why is Gavin Newsom leading the field? Is Josh Shapiro the real threat? Where do Kamala H...

18 Feb 30min

Today's Poll Question: Do you agree with Obama on Aliens?

Today's Poll Question: Do you agree with Obama on Aliens?

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Do you agree with President Obama who says "The odds are good that there's life out there...but... the chances we've been visited by aliens is low"? After for...

18 Feb 14min

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