Trump Administration Uses ‘Equal Time’ Rule to Reshape Late-Night TV

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by John Koblin and Jim Rutenberg

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Trump administration is leveraging the century-old "equal time" rule to fundamentally alter the political dynamics of late-night television. This rule, which mandates equal airtime for political candidates, has historically been applied sparingly but is now being aggressively enforced by the FCC under the current administration. The shift targets prominent late-night hosts who have been vocal critics of President Trump, signaling a potential overhaul in how politics are addressed on such shows. The "equal time" rule was last invoked in 2006 when California's Democratic gubernatorial candidate protested Arnold Schwarzenegger's appearance on *The Tonight Show With Jay Leno*. The FCC under President George W. Bush exempted news programs, including late-night talk shows, from the rule for two decades. However, the Trump administration has since removed this exemption, signaling a new era of regulatory scrutiny over late-night content. This move could significantly impact the political landscape of late-night television, where Democratic voices often dominate. While the rule aims to ensure fair representation for all candidates, critics argue it could suppress critical commentary on politicians like Mr. Trump. For instance, Stephen Colbert recently criticized CBS and the FCC for barring an interview with a Republican candidate, sparking debates about free speech and media regulation. The application of this 1927-era rule raises questions about its relevance in today's multi-platform media landscape. While it may promote political balance, critics worry it could stifle dissent and limit opportunities for political discourse on late-night shows. As the FCC continues to enforce this rule, the broader implications for media regulation and free expression remain uncertain. This shift underscores a significant moment in media regulation, with potential long-term effects on how politics are covered in late-night TV. The debate over the "equal time" rule highlights tensions between ensuring fair representation and safeguarding journalistic freedom, making it a critical issue for anyone following developments in news and media.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/19/2026