Trump’s Confrontation with Media: A Closer Look at His Tactics
President Donald Trump’s recent calls to revoke broadcast licenses offer a glimpse into his ongoing battle with the media. His late-night post on December 26 reignited discussions about media freedom and political bias. Trump claimed that networks and late-night shows provide nearly “100% Negative” coverage of him and his supporters, questioning if they should keep their broadcast licenses. “Shouldn’t their very valuable Broadcast Licenses be terminated?” he asked, delivering a clear confrontational message to mainstream media.
Trump’s criticism came on the heels of CBS broadcasting the Kennedy Center Honors ceremony, where he served as emcee. Late-night host Stephen Colbert took aim at Trump’s performance during the opening monologue, criticizing his self-appointed title of “Trump Kennedy Center.” This back-and-forth highlights the deep-seated rivalry between the former president and figures in the entertainment industry.
In his response, Trump didn’t hold back, labeling Colbert a “pathetic trainwreck” lacking talent. He escalated his remarks, suggesting that CBS should “put him to sleep,” revealing his belief that such jabs warrant serious consequences. This is not a new strategy for Trump; he regularly calls out Colbert and other late-night hosts he considers adversaries, grouping them as “political hacks.” In December 2022, he described them as “High Salaries, No Talent, REALLY LOW RATINGS!”—a reflection of his view on their influence over public opinion.
The larger context here is the ongoing decline in traditional late-night TV viewership, which has dropped significantly over the past few years. CBS has announced Colbert’s departure from “The Late Show” by May 2026, and public interest has waned. Ratings reveal that major late-night shows have seen more than a 40% decrease in viewership since 2018, suggesting a shift toward digital platforms among younger audiences.
Trump’s assertions raise important questions about the intersection of political advocacy and media coverage. Under the Communications Act of 1934, the FCC does regulate broadcast licenses, requiring broadcasters to operate in the “public interest.” Critics argue that Trump’s call to terminate licenses based on content may conflict with First Amendment rights. This tension between media freedom and political grievance speaks to a broader narrative Trump and his supporters have built regarding perceived media hostility.
Polling statistics from reputable sources emphasize this concern among many Republicans. A Pew Research study found that 74% of Republicans feel national news organizations don’t understand their views, and 71% think Trump receives unfair coverage. Additionally, confidence in traditional media has dropped; only 14% of Americans trust TV news significantly, illustrating a growing disconnect between the media and a substantial portion of the population.
Despite Trump’s pointed rhetoric, the likelihood of the FCC acting on his calls to revoke licenses remains slim. Regulatory norms give networks considerable freedom to deliver commentary, even if it targets high-profile political figures. Trump’s communications, particularly through social media, continue to resonate, fostering a perception of media collusion against conservative voices.
Trump’s remarks also factor into the cultural and political landscape shaped by late-night television. As Colbert prepares to leave his show, speculation about the impact Trump’s criticisms have had on the entertainment industry grows. CBS claims its decision is based on business factors, but Trump insists his pressure played a role in the decline of Colbert’s ratings. During a rally last fall, he declared, “His ratings are dead. He’s dead in the water.” Just as pointedly, Colbert responded, rebuking Trump with a sharp retort aimed at his critics.
The media’s reaction reflects a broader cultural discourse. Hosts like Jimmy Kimmel and Seth Meyers continue to engage in this conflict, targeting Trump as part of their comedic narrative. Despite their barbs, Trump and his supporters remain steadfast in their grievances against these figures, framing the negative coverage as part of a larger conspiracy against conservatism.
In his closing remarks on December 26, Trump punctuated his message with a jarring holiday send-off: “MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!” The capital letters emphasized not just festive cheer but also a deliberate branding effort intertwined with his grievances against the media. It’s a stark reminder that his messaging is crafted as much for his supporters as it is a challenge to the media’s portrayal of his administration.
While the calls for revoking broadcast licenses may not pose a tangible legal threat, they illustrate a defining political tactic: redirecting public attention towards media gatekeepers. This approach amplifies the ongoing narrative of institutional bias against conservatives. As 2026 approaches, the ramifications of Trump’s assertions may influence future discussions surrounding media reforms within Congress or the FCC. The public discourse surrounding these issues is likely to evolve as Trump continues to shape the narrative of his political journey.
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