The longtime host of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert addressed the idea during a live appearance at the 20th anniversary event for Slate Political Gabfest. When the hosts asked whether he would ever consider a presidential run, the audience erupted into cheers.
Colbert’s response was blunt — and funny.
“Absolutely, I should not run for president,” he said, drawing laughter from the crowd. Rumors about a possible future bid have been floating around online, but Colbert seemed eager to put them to rest.
This isn’t the first time Colbert has flirted with politics, at least as a joke. In 2012, he famously launched a satirical “exploratory committee” for president of the United States of South Carolina, poking fun at campaign finance laws. He even handed control of his super PAC to fellow comedian Jon Stewart so he could “legally” run — all part of an extended comedy bit.
Despite that history, Colbert suggested any real-life decision would be serious. He joked that he would need to talk things over with his faith leader and his family once his time on late-night television ends.
“If I could be of some greater service to this nation that I love so much…” he said, before adding with a grin, “But who am I to say I should run?”
That line prompted the audience to chant his name.
Colbert’s comments come at a time of major transition. CBS has announced that The Late Show will end next year, with Colbert’s final episode expected to air in May 2026. The cancellation sparked speculation, with many fans believing the decision may be linked to Colbert’s long-running and very public clashes with Donald Trump.
Trump has repeatedly criticized late-night hosts, including Colbert and Jimmy Kimmel, often accusing them of political bias.
For now, Colbert insists he’s not trading jokes for campaign speeches. But with his late-night chapter coming to a close, one thing is certain: many fans are watching closely to see what he does next.
Tags:
News
