Imus Burned at the Stake

I've never listened to Don Imus, and until today, I haven't been able to muster a great deal of interest in his current troubles. John Podhoretz, writing in National Review Online's "The Corner" says he can't stand Mr. Imus and calls him a a "loudmouthed grouch." Maybe he is, I don't know. Mr. Imus is a radio "shock jock" right ? Why is there surprise when he shocks ? But more appears to be involved here than the problems of Don Imus.

The very idea that Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson could be moral arbiters about what it is permissible to say, or not say, is revolting. But Reverend Sharpton unveiled his real agenda today. According to Sharpton (via Drudge and National Review Online):

It is our feeling that this is only the beginning. We must have a broad discussion on what is permitted and not permitted in terms of the airwaves. . .

Now is this about Mr. Imus, or about power ? Clearly, the latter. By the way, it's a good bet the Democrats will use this opportunity to introduce legislation reinstating the Fairness Doctrine -- the better to squelch conservative talk radio and television.

But returning to Don Imus and his problems: I wonder if Mr. Imus would be doing any better for himself if -- rather than falling all over himself apologizing to all and sundry -- he had told Messrs Jackson and Sharpton to piss off, or something maybe a little stronger ? Mr. Imus can apologize and utter mea culpas till the cows come home but it won't help him a bit. The diversity/PC power brokers will ride Imus till he's broken, becuase they can; and, courtesy of the craven suits running media and advertising boardrooms, this end appears to be fast approaching.

Mr. Imus's remarks appear to me to be quite tasteless and moronic. I mean, really, badmouthing a girls basketball team ? Whether he deserves to be burned at the stake for it is another matter.