Radio legend Rush Limbaugh, who began his radio career in 1988, has passed away at the age of 70 after a year long struggle with cancer. Limbaugh’s wife, Kathryn, announced the pioneer’s passing on his radio show.
Limbaugh announced he was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer in January of 2020. He continued to host his universally popular program while receiving treatment, often remarking on how much he enjoyed hosting the show even while severely debilitated by the disease.
In January of 2020, following the announcement of his cancer diagnosis, President Donald Trump awarded Limbaugh the Medal of Freedom at his State of the Union Address.
“Almost every American family knows the pain when a loved one is diagnosed with a serious illness,” President Trump said at the time. “Here tonight is a special man, beloved by millions of Americans, who just received a Stage 4 advanced cancer diagnosis.”
“This is not good news, but what is good news is that he is the greatest fighter and winner that you will ever meet,” the President continued. “Rush Limbaugh, thank you for your decades of tireless devotion to our country.”
Limbaugh had begun receiving treatment at the time, and he arrived at the State of the Union in a wheelchair.
“Rush, in recognition of all that you have done for our nation, the millions of people a day that you speak to and that you inspire, and all of the incredible work that you have done for charity,” said President Trump, “I am proud to announce tonight that you will be receiving our country’s highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom.”
Limbaugh, who is widely credited with shaping the modern Republican Party, did not steer away from criticizing the party, especially in the months before his passing.
In January of this year, Limbaugh lambasted Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC), saying that he never wanted to help President Trump’s agenda, and instead sought to turn the former president into a “Washingtonian.”
In December of 2020, Limbaugh described the polarization of American society, saying “There cannot be a peaceful coexistence of two completely different theories of life, theories of government, theories of how we manage our affairs.”
On Monday, Limbaugh touched on his devout Christianity, and noted that it brought him peace.
“I have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ,” said Limbaugh on Monday. “It is of immense value, strength, confidence. That’s why I’m able to remain fully committed to the idea that what is supposed to happen will happen when it’s meant to.”
Perfect timing to the end. God bless Rush Limbaugh as he returns that peerless talent whence it came. "Remember, man, that thou art dust, and unto dust thou shalt return." pic.twitter.com/WYpiHE6Cy3
— Michael Knowles (@michaeljknowles) February 17, 2021