One of immigration reform’s biggest opponents on television, Lou Dobbs, abruptly resigned from his position as news anchor for CNN on Wednesday. The cable news network’s attempt at remaining neutral was hindered by Dobbs’ tendency for venting his strong opinions. President of CNN/U.S., Jonathan Klein, offered an ultimatum to Dobbs months ago that would allow him to express his partisan feelings on the radio while maintaining an objective stance on television, or he could leave the network.
Dobbs played nice for a short time and didn’t share his polarizing opinions as often, but on Wednesday he decided to leave the network. He announced his resignation on air and said “some leaders in media, politics and business have been urging me to go beyond the role here at CNN and to engage in constructive problem solving as well as to contribute positively to the great understanding of the issues of our day.”
His drastic decision surprised many of his staff members, as they were told of his decision only hours before the program went on air.
Klein said in a statement: “All of us will miss his appetite for big ideas, the megawatt smile and larger than life presence he brought to our newsroom.”
Similar to other CNN programs, Dobbs’ ratings have been declining in recent months. According to show insiders, his contract wasn’t going to expire until the end of 2011 but Klein allowed the early release.
Despite rumors that indicate otherwise, a Fox representative said Wednesday, “We have not had any discussions with Lou Dobbs for Fox News or Fox Business.”
Dobbs’ persona morphed over the years, he began as a serious business anchor and left CNN as an outspoken commentator who called himself “Mr. Independent.” The issues that he cares most strongly about include illegal immigration, the growth of the American middle class, climate change and military involvement in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Since its debut in March 2008, Dobbs saved his most ideological comments for his radio show. This radio show became the platform for Dobbs’ conspiracy theories regarding President Obama’s citizenship.
He often covered immigration issues and came under fire from numerous Hispanic and civil rights groups. Robert Lovato, co-founder of Presente.org – a group that called for CNN to fire Dobbs, said on Wednesday, “We are thrilled that Dobbs no longer has this legitimate platform from which to incite fear and hate.”
Do you think he will go into politics?
I hope so!
This could not happen none too soon I understand that he may have his own viewpoints on immigration however Mr. Dobbs was full of hate, anger and outright racism towards Latino people.
I think the sooner it happened better frankly I don’t understand how you know as long as it did.
I wish Mr. Dobbs the best in all his endeavors.
max