In the world of media, talk radio has certainly been a key part of the Republican’s rise and hold on power, stoking the culture wars and spreading misinformation. Author Rory O'Connor says that 90 percent of talk radio is conservative and that shock jocks--those who traffic in rage--can only be stopped by increasing local ownership. There have been some small victories. Michael Savage was dropped from a number of local stations after he made controversial remarks about autistic children. But it's hardly a dent. Imus is back and Rush Limbaugh receives a largely uncritical profile in the New York Times magazine. O'Connor, the author of Shock Jocks: Hate Speech & Talk Radio discusses the rise of talk radio and its influence on the American electorate. Shock Jocks is published by AlterNet Books.

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