Last week, the talk show radio circuit was ablaze with the beginning of the anti-Obama message before President-elect Barack Obama is even sworn in as the 44th President of the United States. Several months ago, I predicted that Obama’s win would be the best possible scenario for Rush, Sean Hannity and the other fire breathers on the right:
“If Obama is elected Limbaugh has a new target in the White House. Limbaugh will be relevant once again as he regains his status as the leader of the ‘vast right-wing conspiracy.’ On a side note, maybe he will even resurrect his failed TV career; probably not.
The bottom line is that Limbaugh does not care if McCain wins in November, in fact, it would be counter-productive to the possibility of revitalizing his career. If Obama wins Limbaugh will have better ratings and earn more money. So, congratulations ‘ditto heads’, you have achieved Rush’s goal…the only cost to you is victory in November.”
I wouldn’t put much stock in the reaction of Rush because he and his talk show brethren have the most to gain from an Obama presidency – more listeners, better ratings and a hefty pay raise. More importantly, Rush will be back in his environment in taking on the Democrats as he did in the Clinton years, instead of serving as a apologist for George W. Bush and a failed gig on ESPN Sunday Night Football.
The next four years will be a new lease on life for Rush’s career. So, to Rush Limbaugh I say, welcome back to the land of political relevance. The bombastic showman (Limbaugh) vs. Mr. Cool (Obama)…this is going to be fun to watch.
Faculty, Department of Political Science, Towson University. Graduate from Liberty University Seminary.