February 22, 2021
One of the remarkable truths about those who hold a visceral hatred of Rush Limbaugh is the high likelihood they have never listened to his show or read any of his books. They just know they strongly dislike Limbaugh for a good reason, one they can usually validate with a quick search of what others have said about him along with a quote or two for evidence.
The most tangible demonstration of this phenomenon is the newly discovered controversy over a brief segment Rush performed in 1990 called the “AIDS Update.” Prior to his passing, this segment only appeared in a few brief references, cited in a few books and contemporary articles. Outside of that, it seems to have been forgotten until rediscovered upon learning of Limbaugh’s passing with the intention of publicizing every incendiary thing he ever said or was accused of saying.
One thing that’s surprised me over the last 36 hours: Nobody seems to have mentioned that ‘Rusty’ Limbaugh, fortunate son, avoided serving in Vietnam because his doctor said he had a pilonidal cyst. Literally, a hair across his arse. I guess the Vietnam-war-at-home era really is over.
I just saw someone saying that Rush was playing a character, and I can’t see how that’s in any way exculpatory. Playing on peoples worst fears and hatred and racism cynically as a cash grab? That’s…even worse.
“You know how to stop abortion? Require that each one occur with a gun.” -Rush Limbaugh
While conservatives mourned Limbaugh's death, many left-leaning voices criticized the radio host who had been long accused of espousing racist, sexist and homophobic views throughout his career.