BILLINGS — Love him or hate him, there is no ignoring the impact and influence that Rush Limbaugh had on talk radio and politics in America.
Limbaugh passed away Wednesday at the age of 70 after a battle with lung cancer.
“For talk radio, I don’t think there is ever going to be anyone who matches the greatness of Rush Limbaugh when it comes to talk radio,” said Aaron Flint, the host of the statewide radio show “Montana Talks” that airs before Limbaugh’s show on Newstalk 95.5 in Billings.
“I think the thing that is was so great about Rush Limbaugh is that everybody knows him as kind of the voice of conservatism and the voice of conservatives, but the fact that Rush could cover social issues, cultural issues, sports, on top of all the political issues,” said Flint.
Limbaugh has been credited with reviving radio with his show that first went on the air in 1988.
“Even to this day, talk radio is keeping small town and local radio stations not just alive, but thriving—and Rush Limbaugh is the guy to credit for all of that,” said Flint.
Limbaugh had a tremendous influence on politics rising to popularity during Bill Clinton’s presidency.
“Rush reminded every day Americans that you are not alone. Your beliefs are the majority. You just need to get your message out,” said Flint.
And that he did, with audience of millions of listeners.
“I really think he is going to be remembered as one of our great American patriots who taught every day on his program a love for this country,” said Flint.
