The Powers That Be: Daily How Trump Could MAGA-fy Late Night
Jan 29, 2026
Eriq Gardner, media and legal journalist who decodes FCC rules, breaks down proposed Equal Time guidance changes. He explains how narrowing exemptions could chill late-night bookings and reshape debates. The conversation explores whether regulators’ threats are real or mostly bluster and what that would mean for broadcasters and comedy programming.
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Equal Time Rule Is Real But Lightly Enforced
- The FCC's equal time rule requires broadcasters to give rival candidates comparable opportunities if one candidate appears on their platform.
- Historically the rule was loosely enforced, often resolved informally without heavy penalties.
Pop Culture Examples Triggered Equal Time Claims
- Eriq Gardner recalls Donald Trump hosting SNL in late 2015, which triggered rival candidates to demand equal time.
- He also mentions past concerns about movies and shows when candidates like Fred Thompson or Arnold Schwarzenegger ran for office.
1990s Law Made Enforcement Less Painful
- A 1990s Telecommunications Act amendment reduced the risk broadcasters faced by stating adverse equal-time rulings wouldn't affect license renewal.
- That change made enforcement less scary and turned many disputes into routine administrative fixes.
