Update 8:20pm: And then there were two. Vox Radio Group’s 1420 WBEC Pittsfield, MA has dropped Limbaugh as well.
WBEC GM Peter Barry told New England Public Radio, “The nature of Rush’s programming has always presented challenges for us and he’s always pushed the envelope. But this time he’s taken it too far.”
Original Report 5:11pm: As the advertiser backlash from Rush Limbaugh’s comments about Sandra Fluke continues, we have the first affiliate to drop his show: New West Broadcasting’s 670 KPUA Hilo, HI.
The following statement was made by Chris Leonard, President and General Manager of New West:
“We have always encouraged spirited discussion about national and local issues on KPUA and from time to time those discussions may be deemed by some to be objectionable. We are strong believers in the first amendment and have recognized Mr. Limbaugh’s right to express opinions that often times differ from our own, but
it has never been our goal to allow our station to be used for personal attacks and intolerance. The most recent incident has crossed a line of decency and a standard that we expect of programming on KPUA whether it is locally produced or a syndicated program like the Rush Limbaugh show.
While much of the national debate regarding this issue is now being framed in political terms, the decision for us is one of decency and responsibility. Regardless of one’s political views on the issue being discussed, we feel the delivery was degrading and the continued comments over several days to be egregious. As a result, we are discontinuing the Rush Limbaugh program on KPUA effective immediately.â€
MattParker
Rush will probably lose some more small stations (and maybe some not so small). It’s more about money than whatever offense somebody might take at his comments. Clear Channel/Premiere charges a hefty fee to carry Rush. A marginal operation will have a tough time justifying that in, well, tough times. If Rush doesn’t bring in local revenue during his show and bring audience to the station overall, managers are going to want to save the cost of his show. Especially now that they have Smerconish or Huckabee as viable (and less costly) alternatives. The current flap gives managers who have been thinking about making a change a good excuse to do it. And may push others to start thinking about making a change. Besides, if the local station manager is hearing comments from his friends at the country club and the c of c luncheon, Rush really becomes expendable.