Stephen Colbert trashes CBS, FCC after Talarico interview pulled from broadcast; JB Pritzker's cousin resigns from Hyatt board over Epstein ties; DHS demands tech companies share data on accounts that track, criticize ICE: Report; and more | 2.17.26 - Rising Recap
Podcast: Rising
Published: 2026-02-17
Duration: 50 minutes
Guests: James Tallarico
Summary
Stephen Colbert criticized CBS and the FCC for pulling his interview with James Tallarico. Tom Pritzker resigned from the Hyatt board due to connections with Jeffrey Epstein, and the DHS is demanding tech companies share data on accounts that criticize ICE.
What Happened
Stephen Colbert expressed his discontent with CBS for not airing his interview with James Talarico, a Democratic candidate. Colbert accused the FCC of partisan motivations, which stirred discussions around media censorship and regulation. The interview, which was pulled from the broadcast, was later aired on YouTube and social media platforms.
Tom Pritzker, cousin of Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, stepped down from the Hyatt Hotels board following revelations of his ties with Jeffrey Epstein. Pritzker's resignation was part of a broader fallout from his association with Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, underscoring the ongoing impact of the Epstein scandal on high-profile individuals.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued subpoenas to major tech companies like Google, Meta, and Reddit, demanding user data on accounts critical of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). While some companies complied with the requests, Congressman Ro Khanna strongly urged tech firms to resist these demands, citing concerns over privacy and the expansion of surveillance.
Hakeem Jeffries, facing pressure from activists like Wajahat Ali, declined to endorse the abolition of ICE. Despite criticism for not taking a bold stance, Jeffries maintained his position, reflecting the complex dynamics within the Democratic Party regarding immigration enforcement policies.
Nancy Pelosi is reportedly backing California Governor Gavin Newsom for a potential 2028 presidential run. Newsom is seen as a rising star within the Democratic Party, and Pelosi's support could be pivotal in shaping the future political landscape.
In a related political development, a poll by Focal Data shows Vice President Kamala Harris leading the field for the 2028 Democratic nomination with 39% support. This early polling underscores the ongoing speculation and strategic positioning within the party for future elections.
Key Insights
- Stephen Colbert accused the FCC of partisan motivations after CBS pulled his interview with Democratic candidate James Talarico, but the segment found a new audience on YouTube and social media, highlighting the evolving power of digital platforms in bypassing traditional media gatekeepers.
- Tom Pritzker resigned from the Hyatt Hotels board due to his links with Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, a move that signals how toxic associations can unravel careers long after initial revelations.
- The Department of Homeland Security's subpoenas to tech giants like Google and Meta for user data on accounts critical of ICE highlight a growing tension between government surveillance demands and privacy advocacy, with Congressman Ro Khanna urging resistance to protect civil liberties.
- Nancy Pelosi's support for Gavin Newsom's potential 2028 presidential run positions him as a significant contender within the Democratic Party, potentially affecting the political strategies of other aspirants like Kamala Harris, who currently leads early polling for the nomination.
Key Questions Answered
What did Stephen Colbert say about the FCC and CBS?
Stephen Colbert criticized CBS for pulling his interview with James Talarico and accused the FCC of being motivated by partisan purposes. The interview, though not aired on CBS, was later made available on YouTube.
Why did Tom Pritzker resign from the Hyatt board?
Tom Pritzker resigned from the Hyatt Hotels board due to his connections with Jeffrey Epstein, which included facilitating travel for Epstein's associates after Epstein's 2008 plea deal.
What actions did DHS take against tech companies regarding ICE criticism?
DHS issued subpoenas to tech companies like Google, Meta, and Reddit, demanding data on accounts criticizing ICE. While some companies complied, there was significant pushback from figures like Ro Khanna against these privacy-invasive actions.