Rush Limbaugh Stirs Up More Controversy – This Time in Radio

Rush Limbaugh, definitely the ultimate talk show host, is stirring up another controversy, although this one is mostly affecting the radio industry. You may recall February, 2012, when Rush made on air “derogatory” comments about Sandra Fluke, the law student who urged congress to pass insurance that included birth control.

Hundreds of various national businesses and some local station clients insisted their commercials not air in Rush’s show. Even Habitat for Humanity asked their free public service announcements not air in the program’s time slot! For the most part, the whole issue has blown over until this past weekend. A source close to Limbaugh told the New York Daily News that Limbaugh is upset with comments made by Lew Dickey, Chairman of Cumulus Broadcasting, one of radio’s largest chains and Rush’s New York City affiliate WABC. Dickey blames his company’s revenue drops in part on Rush’s comments and subsequent cancellations. Stating that revenues were down 3%, Dickey claims 1%  -- which amounted to $4 million -- of that figure was due to Rush. Rush’s spokesperson said that was false. And, if they keep saying it he may leave WABC and other Cumulus stations when their contracts are up. WABC’s ends December 31. Rush could easily move to WOR, another 50,000 watt AM. As I say it is an ongoing story that affects radio but I thought you might find it interesting. We will keep you posted on developments.