During a recent episode of CBS’s “The Late Show,” host Stephen Colbert generated unexpected laughter during a discussion with CNN journalist Kaitlan Collins.
The late-night interview, originally planned to focus on serious political issues, unexpectedly veered into humor when Colbert’s comment about CNN’s objectivity sparked laughter from the audience in New York City.
Colbert started his question with, “I know you guys are objective over there, that you just report the news as it is…” The audience quickly interpreted this as a critique of CNN’s contested objectivity, amid frequent claims that the network leans left in its reporting. The reaction from the crowd suggests a shared sentiment.
Catching on to the audience’s response, a surprised Collins asked, “Is that supposed to be a laugh line?”
Colbert, appearing somewhat taken aback, attempted to justify his comment before eventually admitting with a subtle grin, “It wasn’t supposed to be, but I guess it is.” This exchange underscored the skepticism many feel towards media neutrality, regardless of their political alignment.
The interview was designed to delve into recent shifts in the presidential race, especially after President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from his re-election bid. Collins, who has extensive White House coverage experience, discussed the dynamics of the Democratic campaign. She commented on the unexpected transition from Biden to Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee and how it has disrupted the campaign strategy of former President Donald Trump.
“Trump has kind of been thrown on his heels by this and he’s not really sure how to go after Vice President Harris. He knew his attack lines on President Biden. He really has struggled with how to go after someone who’s 20 years younger than him, who is a different gender, a different race,” Collins said. This observation underscores the obstacles Trump encounters as he retools his campaign strategy against a significantly different adversary.
Collins also noted that Trump’s strategies, once effective against Biden, may not yield the same results against Harris. She restated the hurdles Trump faces in establishing a consistent narrative against the Vice President.
The conversation also addressed the broader consequences of Harris’ nomination and how it has redirected media and public attention. Collins observed that the rejuvenated Democratic ticket has made it difficult for Trump to maintain media dominance as he did in previous campaigns. “You predicted this, I don’t know if you remember,” Collins told Colbert, “But I did my research, and you predicted that if Harris became the nominee, there would be a lot of enthusiasm behind her, and Donald Trump would not be able to break into the headlines. And that’s where he is right now.”
Ultimately, the interview served as a comedic break in an otherwise grave discussion, exemplifying the intricate relationship between politics, the media, and public perception in today’s intense climate.
