Podcast Summary: The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert Episode: Senator Adam Schiff | Feeling The Heat
Release Date: July 18, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert, host Stephen Colbert engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Senator Adam Schiff. The discussion delves into the current political climate, the strategies of both the Democratic and Republican parties, and the broader implications for American democracy. This summary captures the essence of their dialogue, highlighting key topics, insightful exchanges, and notable quotes with timestamps for reference.

Monologue Highlights

Stephen Colbert opens the episode with a heartfelt announcement regarding the future of The Late Show. At [00:17], he reveals, “Next year will be our last season. The network will be ending the late show in May.” Colbert expresses deep gratitude towards the CBS team, the network, and his dedicated audience, emphasizing the end of an era for late-night television.

He humorously transitions to current events, addressing the extreme heatwave affecting the United States. At [04:09], Colbert quips, “Temperatures hit triple digits in Nevada and California... The threat of dehydration led the National Weather Service to recommend that Americans in 11 states avoid alcohol and caffeine.” His witty commentary sets the tone for an engaging and informative episode.

Interview with Senator Adam Schiff

Background and Recent Election

Senator Adam Schiff, a recently elected U.S. Senator from California, joins Colbert at [18:49]. Colbert acknowledges Schiff’s transition from the House of Representatives to the Senate, noting, “Just last fall, he was elected to the Senate.” The conversation quickly pivots to Schiff’s approach to representing a diverse constituency.

Bridging the Political Divide

At [19:16], Colbert asks Schiff about his interactions with constituents in California’s red districts. Schiff responds thoughtfully:
"I met with the Farm Bureau, a very conservative group... I wanted to represent you. I want to fight for you in the Senate." ([19:23]) He shares a pivotal moment from his meeting in Butte County, illustrating his efforts to connect with and understand the concerns of conservative voters.

Schiff emphasizes the importance of personal connection in bridging political divides:
"People aren't going to vote for you... if they think you look down on them or condescend to them or even worse, you're not interested and you're just indifferent to them." ([21:00])

Democratic Socialism and Party Messaging

The conversation shifts to the rise of Democratic Socialism within the party. At [24:23], Colbert inquires about the recent appeal of figures like Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC). Schiff responds:
"They are vigorous challengers against the status quo. They recognize the status quo just sucks for working people, and they're not afraid to say so." ([24:20]) He argues that the appeal lies in their authenticity and boldness in addressing economic disparities.

Schiff warns against the party being perceived as complacent with the status quo:
"If we're going to win the midterms and we're going to take back the White House, we cannot be seen as the party of the status quo." ([25:46]) He advocates for Democrats to adopt a message reminiscent of FDR and LBJ, focusing on caring for farmers, marginalized communities, and ensuring economic stability for all.

Impact of Donald Trump’s Presidency

At [27:18], Colbert asks Schiff about the differences observed six months into President Trump’s second term. Schiff provides a stark analysis:
"He wants to create a climate of fear. And he is succeeding." ([27:25]) He elaborates on how Trump’s strategies have intensified, making various institutions and individuals feel threatened, thereby consolidating his influence through intimidation.

Congressional Actions and the Rescission Bill

The discussion progresses to recent legislative actions, specifically the Senate’s passage of a rescission bill. At [28:44], Colbert seeks clarification on this legislative move. Schiff explains:
"The rescission bill is like a mini reconciliation bill... they cut funding for AIDS and tuberculosis and malaria and public broadcasting and NPR." ([28:56]) He criticizes the maneuver as an overreach of executive power, highlighting how it undermines Congress’s authority by retracting already allocated funds.

Schiff underscores the significance of the “power of the purse”:
"Congress is absolutely giving its power away... we have the power, if we use it to say, hey, Donald Trump, we're not going to let you lay off all these people." ([30:09]) He argues that defunding executive initiatives is crucial to maintaining checks and balances within the government.

Personal Attacks and Political Violence

Addressing the increase in political hostility, Schiff shares his experiences with threats:
"I can't find a member of the House or Senate that hasn't gotten death threats." ([31:06]) He elaborates on the pervasive climate of fear that extends beyond political opponents to judges, city council members, and election workers. Schiff emphasizes the need for resilience and opposition to intimidation tactics.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with a reaffirmation of the importance of combating fear and maintaining democratic integrity. Senator Adam Schiff’s insights provide a sobering look at the current political landscape, emphasizing the necessity for active and authentic representation. Stephen Colbert adeptly navigates these critical discussions, offering listeners a blend of humor and insightful political analysis.

Notable Quotes:

• Stephen Colbert ([19:23]): “I want to represent you. I want to fight for you in the Senate.”
• Senator Adam Schiff ([21:00]): “People aren't going to vote for you... if they think you look down on them or condescend to them or even worse, you're not interested and you're just indifferent to them.”
• Senator Adam Schiff ([24:20]): “They are vigorous challengers against the status quo. They recognize the status quo just sucks for working people, and they're not afraid to say so.”
• Senator Adam Schiff ([27:25]): “He wants to create a climate of fear. And he is succeeding.”
• Senator Adam Schiff ([30:09]): “Congress is absolutely giving its power away... we have the power, if we use it to say, hey, Donald Trump, we're not going to let you lay off all these people.”

This episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert offers a deep dive into the strategies and challenges facing contemporary American politics, featuring an expert perspective from Senator Adam Schiff. Listeners gain valuable insights into congressional dynamics, party messaging, and the broader struggle to uphold democratic principles in a polarized environment.