Editor’s note: I actually wrote this a while back, and thought I had published it. Apparently not. Doh!
I just learned the other day that Rush Limbaugh died recently. Honestly, I didn’t know until I heard about it on several podcasts. (I guess they really are my news source at this point.) And on both of the podcasts, they made an effort to reflect on his legacy, as it were.
Both acknowledged his skill as a broadcaster. As an entertainer. As a figure to be discussed and analyzed. And then went about describing the vile things that he did and said over the many years he was on the air.
I certainly understand the idea of recognizing the talent of a figure like Rush Limbaugh. To do what he did for that amount of time, it does take skill and talent. I can agree with that.
But...
He was mean. And hateful. And racist. And bigoted. And all of the vile things you could mention. All in the name of upholding an agenda of hatred, and racism, and misogyny. And so on. And so on. And so on.
I can recognize the talent, yes, but the evil that was inspired by his rhetoric and hateful speech FAR outweighs any recognition he deserves.
He belongs not even in the dust bin of history, but the shit can. “Legacy” should not apply to this man nor his career. If there were any justice in this world, 10 years from now, no one would remember his name.
And let that be his legacy.
