CNN has one less crazed conservative at its network.
Last night, on air anchor Lou Dobbs announced he is quitting his job of 30 years at CNN — effective immediately. The controversial host of “Lou Dobbs Tonight” has been under serious fire recently for some over the top statements he’s made regarding President Obama’s citizenship, Mexicans, and immigration. CNN President Jon Klein had asked Dobbs for months to tone the rhetoric down, but the man who refers to himself as “Mr. Independent” basically ignored the directive from his boss and continued voicing his own personal slant to the news. After a major meeting and disagreement with CNN brass, Dobbs was released from his contract and allowed one final appearance on his network show Wednesday night. A few minutes into the live taping, Dobbs made the announcement that his 30 year tenure at CNN was coming to an abrupt and immediate halt, much to the surprise of his many viewers.
Dobbs’ conservative slant and obvious prejudice always seemed out of place at CNN. At a time when CNN has focused greatly on neutrality in the news and avoiding partisan commentary, Dobbs always seemed better suited for the openly partisan FOX NEWS. Now, he may have that opportunity. Dobbs’ job ended so quickly, he could not say on air with certainty what his next move would be. But he assured viewers he has many options and will announce his course as soon as he’s figured it all out.
Dobbs began working at CNN at its inception in 1980. As one of its original anchors, he led network business coverage for 19 years and ran its sister network CNNfn before leaving abruptly after a coverage dispute with then-network president Rick Kaplan. After starting the astronautical news website Space.com, Dobbs returned to CNN in 2001 and soon went forward with his own personal agendas, which were out of step with the network’s emphasis on neutral reporting. Liberal and racially ethnic groups, which have been calling for CNN to get rid of Dobbs, celebrated his resignation from the network considered “The Most Trusted Name in News.” CNN will announce a replacement for Dobbs later today.
`
`
