Colbert Interview Puts Texas Senate Race in Spotlight

Talarico's appearance on "The Late Show" draws national attention as early voting begins in Texas

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An interview between Texas Democrat James Talarico and late-night host Stephen Colbert that never aired on television is drawing widespread attention online as the U.S. Senate primary race heats up in Texas. The moment gave Talarico national exposure just as early voting began in the state.

Why it matters

The interview highlighted key issues in the Texas Senate race, including economic inequality, education, and the role of religion in government, at a critical time as voters head to the polls. It also raised questions about equal-time rules for political candidates on television.

The details

Colbert criticized CBS for not allowing the interview to air due to FCC equal-time rules, so "The Late Show" posted it on YouTube instead. In the interview, Talarico discussed topics like the "top versus bottom" divide in the country and his concerns about issues like school closures and healthcare. His primary opponent, Rep. Jasmine Crockett, said she has appeared on late-night shows before and plans to release a statement on the matter.

  • Early voting in Texas runs through Feb. 27 ahead of the March 3 primary election.

The players

James Talarico

A Texas Democrat running for U.S. Senate.

Stephen Colbert

The host of "The Late Show" on CBS.

Jasmine Crockett

Talarico's primary opponent, a U.S. Representative from Texas.

John Cornyn

The incumbent Republican U.S. Senator from Texas, expected to draw voters loyal to former President Trump.

Ken Paxton

The Texas Attorney General, who could appeal to voters who believe Cornyn has not gone far enough in fighting for conservative priorities.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“They are trying to control what we watch, what we say, what we read, and this is the most dangerous kind of cancel culture, the kind that comes from the top.”

— James Talarico (The Late Show)

“The real fight in this country is not left versus right, it is top versus bottom.”

— James Talarico (The Late Show)

“They are closing our schools, gutting our healthcare, and raising our taxes while they cut taxes for their billionaire donors.”

— James Talarico (The Late Show)

“I believe Donald Trump is worried we're about to flip Texas.”

— James Talarico (The Late Show)

“Texas, we can do this, this is about believing in ourselves.”

— Jasmine Crockett, U.S. Representative from Texas (CBS News)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.