A new series of social media posts threatens media freedoms, sparking concern among conservatives.
Story Highlights
- President Trump calls Stephen Colbert a “dead man walking” and demands CBS to “put him to sleep.”
- Trump suggests revoking broadcast licenses of networks with negative coverage against him.
- CBS announced the cancellation of Colbert’s show set for May 2026 amid declining ratings.
- Posts reflect Trump’s ongoing feud with late-night hosts critical of him.
Trump’s Latest Criticism of Late-Night TV
On Christmas Eve, President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to criticize Stephen Colbert, host of *The Late Show with Stephen Colbert*. Labeling Colbert as a “dead man walking,” Trump urged CBS to “put him to sleep,” referencing the show’s planned cancellation in May 2026. This attack is the latest in Trump’s longstanding feud with Colbert, whom he has frequently criticized for biased coverage and low ratings.
Trump’s posts also extend beyond Colbert, threatening to revoke broadcast licenses of networks that provide negative coverage of him, his administration, and Republican ideologies. This rhetoric echoes Trump’s previous calls for media accountability, highlighting his ongoing battle against what he perceives as biased media.
NEW: President Trump went on an early Wednesday morning rant, insulting late-night host Stephen Colbert by saying he is a "dead man walking" and that CBS should "put him to sleep."
MORE: https://t.co/flAQaL67xG pic.twitter.com/PSKPzXYYoA
— WTVC NewsChannel 9 (@newschannelnine) December 24, 2025
Impact on Media and Public Discourse
Trump’s comments come at a time when late-night television ratings are declining, forcing networks like CBS to reassess their programming. The potential threat to broadcast licenses raises the stakes, as networks may face regulatory challenges if Trump’s administration follows through. These developments put pressure on the media landscape, influencing how networks approach political comedy and criticism.
For conservatives, Trump’s push against media bias aligns with calls for greater accountability and fairness in reporting. The potential for FCC investigations into broadcast licenses could set a precedent, testing the balance between First Amendment rights and perceived media responsibilities.
Broader Implications and Future Prospects
The immediate effect of Trump’s posts is an intensification of media tension, with possible advertiser withdrawals from late-night slots and increased social media discourse. Long-term, if the administration acts on license threats, it could chill satirical content and alter the landscape of political comedy on television.
As the situation unfolds, stakeholders in the media industry and political spheres will closely watch for any FCC actions or network responses. This ongoing narrative underscores the complex relationship between media entities and political figures, especially in an era of heightened scrutiny and partisanship.
https://youtu.be/1Jyb5Sgb4pg?si=na8E8HzoYIr-dJKP
Sources:
Trump slams Colbert, calls him ‘dead man walking’ and demands CBS ‘put him to sleep’
Trump slams Colbert, calls him ‘dead man walking’ and demands CBS ‘put him to sleep’
Trump calls Stephen Colbert ‘dead man walking’ while urging CBS to put late-night host ‘to sleep’
Trump calls Stephen Colbert ‘dead man walking’ while urging CBS to put late-night host ‘to sleep’
