1. United States
2. Iowa
3. Letter

I am writing to demand an immediate congressional investigation into the recent termination of Stephen Colbert by CBS and its troubling connection to the $16 million payment reportedly made to the network by Donald Trump or his affiliates. The public has a right to know whether this payment influenced CBS’s decision and whether this constitutes political interference in media content. This matter raises serious First Amendment concerns. Any effort—direct or indirect—to suppress political criticism in broadcast media threatens the fundamental principles of free speech and accountability in a democracy. The timing and nature of this incident suggest a coordinated attempt to silence dissent and manipulate public discourse. I urge you to take immediate action before the upcoming congressional recess. Furthermore, I ask that you publicly affirm your support for freedom of speech and the right of all Americans—media included—to openly criticize political leaders without fear of retaliation or censorship. Your voice on this issue matters. I expect to see strong, public leadership from you on this urgent threat to democratic norms and press independance,