02/17/26 CBS Fears the FCC

CBS reportedly blocked Stephen Colbert from interviewing Texas Democrat James Talarico — and Colbert called it out on-air. At the same time, the FCC is investigating The View, ruling on Bad Bunny’s halftime show, and revisiting equal time rules for political candidates. Is this routine regulation… or are networks getting nervous?

We break down the growing tension between broadcasters and the FCC, what it could mean for political coverage heading into 2026, and whether fear of federal scrutiny is shaping who gets airtime. Plus: Trump’s proposed budget cuts stall in Congress, USAID funds are reportedly used for Russell Vought’s security, and Barack Obama steps back into the spotlight — condemning Trump’s racist video, addressing ICE protests, homelessness policy, and whether Democrats need a generational reset. Regulatory pressure. Media caution. Political fallout.