EL RUSHMO

Posted at 9:25 p.m. ET

One thing I'm able to do on days when I have to travel to meetings or briefings is to catch up on talk radio.  As you know, conservative talk radio is threatened by the possible reimposition of the so-called "fairness doctrine," a move some liberals are talking up.  There are also other governmental gimmicks that can threaten its existence, like "localism," where stations would be forced by the Federal Communications Commission to respect "local" interests and views. 

I was listening to Rush Limbaugh on the way into New York City today.  He is, more than anyone else, the symbol of conservative talk radio.  Some like him, others loathe him.  But what struck me today, as it has many times, is what a superb broadcaster Rush is.  What also struck me is how well prepared he is.  Yes, he can be over the top.  Yes, we sometimes wonder if he's serious about everything he says.  But Rush knows his stuff.  He can make an argument based on facts.  He opposes and he can attack, but never viciously.  He goes about his politics with a little twinkle in his eye, which comes through even on radio.  There is substance to his show.  I always feel I learn something.

I simply cannot understand the attacks on Rush as a "hate" broadcaster.  I've never heard hate, whereas I heard it all the time on Air America, the failed liberal talk network.  Rush is entertaining, and informational.  Hate is not part of the package.

At a time when the mainstream press is completely in the tank for President-elect Obama and the liberal legions, we need Rush, and we should defend him against the slurs and false charges of an irrational opposition.  Rush didn't get to where he did by being poor at what he does.  He got to the top by being very good. 

Conservative talk radio is, today, truly "alternative" radio.  It deals with issues that the mainstream media ignore or underplay.  It is important, not just for those of our persuasion, but for the national debate.  Rush is a critical part of that debate, and he must continue.

November 24, 2008.