The so-called Fairness Doctrine that forestalled the emergence of political talk radio had its origins in the Roosevelt administration’s treatment of the Yankee Radio network in the 1930’s. The Roosevelt administration did not appreciate the modest editorial criticism that appeared on the network and it squelched it.
At NRO Hugh Hewitt comprehensively reviews the state of talk radio today. It’s thriving. Hugh makes the case that President Obama should attend to it and that the possible return of the Fairness Doctrine poses no threat to it.
If I were confident that the Supreme Court is as dedicated to the protection of speech as it is nude dancing and flag burning, I’d rest a little easier on the last point. Hugh also addresses two indirect threats to talk radio and otherwise makes a compelling case all the way around.
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