Democratic Commissioner Anna Gomez said the guidance contrasts with the FCC's long-standing view that such programs are entitled to editorial discretion based on newsworthiness, not political favoritism.

WASHINGTON —In a move that could have a major impact on daytime and late night talk shows, the Federal Communications Commissions ' Media Bureau has issued guidance telling broadcast stations airing certain late night and daytime talk shows that they are required to give equal time to rival candidates.

The FCC has announced plans to enforce rules that late-night programs give equal time to opposing political candidates.

"It's his latest attack on free speech and it's a joke," Kimmel said during his Thursday, Jan. 22 monologue