Appearing on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert in New York City, Leavitt entered the Ed Sullivan Theater with sharp talking points, a rehearsed smile, and the determination of someone ready to seize national attention.

The audience, a mix of Colbert’s loyal fans and curious onlookers intrigued by the pairing, was ready for sparks to fly.

And sparks did fly, but not in the way Leavitt may have hoped.

From the opening exchange, Leavitt launched into pointed attacks, accusing Colbert of “weaponizing comedy to shield hypocrisy,” and insisting that late-night television had become little more than “propaganda dressed up as entertainment.

” Her words, laced with bravado, drew nervous laughter from the crowd, which seemed uncertain whether to laugh, boo, or wait for Colbert’s trademark satirical counterpunch.