Why Rush Limbaugh is a Fervent Trump Supporter: A Case of Hate-Propaganda and Corporate Interest
For years, Rush Limbaugh has been a prominent figure in conservative media, known for his inflammatory and hate-filled statements. His recent intense support for Donald Trump can be seen as a continuation of his pattern of spreading hate propaganda and aligning himself with those who benefit from his audience's divisiveness.
The Nature of Rush Limbaugh's Propaganda
Propaganda, as defined by H.L. Mencken, is a form of discourse that preaches doctrines known to be untrue to a populace that is largely composed of idiots. In the context of Rush Limbaugh, his role in propagating hate against various groups can be traced back to his long-standing history of vilifying women, the poor, Democrats, immigrants, and anyone who diverges from his conservative ideology.
The Alignment Between Limbaugh and Trump
President Donald Trump and Rush Limbaugh share a deep ideological and financial alignment. Trump’s rhetoric and policies have often echoed Limbaugh's stance on multiple fronts, from blaming immigration for societal ills to demonizing political opponents. This alignment is not coincidental but rather a continuation of Limbaugh’s strategy to capitalize on and amplify hate-filled rhetoric to gain both profit and political influence.
The Business of Hate
Rush Limbaugh’s initial success was built on the foundation of creating a divisive and emotionally charged environment. Over time, as his audience has dwindled, Limbaugh has had to adapt. One of the key changes is his willingness to promote authoritarian figures like Donald Trump, who can offer financial benefits through increased viewership and donations.
Limbaugh’s funding has significantly shifted towards right-wing thinktanks, which align with his message and can offer financial support. The current political landscape allows Limbaugh to promote a narrative that benefits the wealthy and powerful while further dividing the rest of society. This shift in funding has made Limbaugh more aligned with figures who can provide monetary incentives, leading to a dangerous cycle of hate and financial gain.
A Modern Demagogue
As a demagogue, Limbaugh preaches falsehoods to a population he believes to be uneducated or easily manipulated. His history of promoting harmful ideologies, from anti-immigrant rhetoric to anti-woman doctrines, has led to real-world consequences. The impact of Limbaugh's hate-filled message extends beyond the airwaves, contributing to a toxic political environment that has led to significant harm, including the loss of a family member to the divisiveness he has helped create.
Limbaugh’s pattern of behavior is not unique. Other conservative media figures like Sean Hannity and Glenn Beck would also be quick to support figures like Karl Marx if given a significant, easily manipulated audience. The profit motive often overrides ethical considerations in this lucrative industry, where divisive speech can lead to higher ad revenue and more engaged audiences.
Conclusion
The support that Rush Limbaugh has for Donald Trump is not a mere coincidence but a calculated move by a man who thrives on division and hate. His role as a propagandist and demagogue has enabled him to amass a massive audience and substantial financial gain. As this pattern continues, it is crucial for society to understand the harm these figures can cause and to take steps to mitigate the spread of hate-filled rhetoric.