The landscape of late-night television is increasingly viewed as a battleground for political commentary, as highlighted by columnist Cal Thomas. In a recent piece, he criticizes The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, set to conclude in May 2024, for acting as a platform for Democratic criticism of former President Donald Trump. Thomas argues that the show exemplifies a broader trend of politicized late-night TV, which he believes undermines objective discourse.
Counteracting Partisan Messaging
Despite Thomas’s claims, late-night programs like Colbert’s, along with others hosted by Jimmy Kimmel and Jon Stewart, serve as one of the few counterpoints to the predominance of pro-Trump narratives on networks such as FOX News. These shows provide essential commentary on significant issues that might otherwise go unchallenged, particularly those related to Trump’s policies and statements. For instance, during a recent photo-op with a foreign dignitary, Trump criticized Jerome Powell, the chair of the Federal Reserve, stating, “He’s a terrible, a terrible fed chair. I was surprised he was appointed; I was surprised, frankly, that Biden put him in.”
This statement raises eyebrows, considering that it was Trump who originally appointed Powell. Critics argue that this tendency to shift blame reflects a lack of accountability. Late-night comedians play a crucial role in exposing such contradictions, often highlighting the discrepancies between Trump’s claims and the reality of his decisions.
While FOX News frequently focuses on the perceived mental decline of President Joe Biden, they often overlook Trump’s own shortcomings and the implications of his actions. The ongoing discussions about the so-called “Epstein files” further complicate matters, as many of Trump’s supporters are now expressing frustration over his failure to fulfill his campaign promise to release these documents. This situation exemplifies the discontent brewing among even the staunchest MAGA supporters, many of whom feel sidelined by the very leader they once idolized.
The Costs of Political Allegiance
The crux of the issue lies in the nature of political loyalty. As Thomas notes, Trump’s authoritarian tendencies manifest in his treatment of followers who challenge him. Those who remain aligned with his agenda are often praised, while dissenters face ridicule and scorn. This dynamic raises critical questions about the costs of truth in today’s political climate.
“An authoritarian only cares about himself and his authority. As long as you play along and be good little followers, he’ll like you. If you don’t play along? Well, you know.”
For viewers seeking a more balanced perspective, engaging with shows like Colbert’s may provide valuable insights into the political landscape. As the late-night format continues to evolve, it remains a space where humor meets serious commentary, bridging gaps in public understanding and sparking crucial discussions.
As the debate around political accountability and media representation unfolds, it becomes increasingly important for audiences to scrutinize the narratives presented to them. Whether through laughter or serious analysis, late-night television continues to shape the conversation around political issues, challenging viewers to think critically about the information they consume.