Former Fox Business journalist Lou Dobbs dies at 78

By 
 July 19, 2024

Lou Dobbs, the former Fox Business journalist known for his pro-Trump commentary, has died. He was 78.

Dobbs was known for his unapologetic views on mass immigration, which he shared even while working for CNN. During his time as a Fox Business host, he was one of Trump's most vocal backers in the media.

Lou Dobbs dies

The sad news was shared by Trump, who called Dobbs a "friend" and "a truly incredible Journalist."

"The Great Lou Dobbs has just passed away — A friend, and truly incredible Journalist, Reporter, and Talent," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "He understood the World, and what was 'happening,' better than others. Lou was unique in so many ways, and loved our Country. Our warmest condolences to his wonderful wife, Debi, and family. He will be greatly missed!"

 

Dobbs' career in media took off at CNN when the network launched in 1980. His financial news program Moneyline evolved into a popular and controversial commentary show, Lou Dobbs Tonight. 

In 2009, Dobbs abruptly left CNN as liberal groups fanned outrage over his comments criticizing mass immigration. He also promoted doubts about Barack Obama's citizenship.

Lou Dobbs Tonight found a new home at Fox Business in 2011, where Dobbs became an early and vocal backer of Trump's 2016 campaign and presidency.

Highly rated host brought controversy

During Trump's presidency, Dobbs' show would become the highest-rated at Fox Business. But Fox canceled the show in 2021 after Dobbs was named in a lawsuit from voting machine company Dominion Voting Systems, which accused Fox and its talent of spreading lies about the 2020 election.

“An incredible business mind with a gift for broadcasting, Lou helped pioneer cable news into a successful and influential industry,” Fox News Media said in a statement said. “We are immensely grateful for his many contributions and send our heartfelt condolences to his family.”

Lou Dobbs' X account called him a "fighter till the very end."

"It's with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of 'the great Lou Dobbs.' Lou was a fighter till the very end -- fighting for what mattered to him the most, God, his family and the country. Lou's legacy will forever live on as a patriot and a great American."

After leaving Fox, Dobbs was the host of The Great America Show on iHeartRadio.

Dobbs is survived by his wife Debi and their four kids.

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