The Federal Election Commission has decided in a 5-1 vote to allow Stephen Colbert to launch his Super PAC! Thanks to a special “media exemption” that should limit any implications the ruling has on campaign finance moving forward, he will be allowed to use Comedy Central resources to promote his political group. He’ll also be able to create and run ads supporting or opposing federal candidates — as long as they only air within the context of his show.
“It has been said that freedom isn’t free,” Colbert reportedly told his fans post-hearing. “Today, we have placed a sizable down payment. Today, we put liberty on layaway. I don’t know about you, but I do not accept limits on my free speech. I don’t know about you, but I do not accept the status quo. But I do accept Visa, Mastercard and American Express. Fifty dollars or less please, because then I don’t have to keep a record of who gave it to me. Also please remember that your gift is not tax deductible for you. It is tax-exempt for me. Now please form an orderly mob. My unpaid staff and I are ready to shake my little money maker.” [via Politico]