Rush Limbaugh's Bid for the St. Louis Rams Draws Controversy

Rush Limbaugh, a popular radio host, is among those bidding to buy the St. Louis Rams, a professional football team worth more than $900 million. However, his bid is facing fierce opposition from the community, particularly from those who have been offended by his past comments about race. Despite Limbaugh's supporters claiming some quotes are fabrications, many are calling for the team's current owners to reject any offer that includes him. The controversy has raised questions about whether Limbaugh's presence as an owner would be detrimental to the city's efforts to heal racial divisions.

Key Takeaways:

  • The St. Louis Rams are worth over $900 million, according to one estimate.
  • Rush Limbaugh is a potential owner of the team, but his bid is facing opposition from the community.
  • More than 60% of NFL players are black, and some have already stated that they would not join the Rams if Limbaugh has even a limited role.
  • A Limbaugh ownership could drive fans away, according to some local business owners.
  • St. Louis politicians have been mum on the issue, but one local leader has introduced a resolution asking the current owners to decline any offer from a Limbaugh-backed group.
  • Limbaugh's past comments about race, including one in which he stated that Donovan McNabb did not deserve credit for the Philadelphia Eagles' performance, have been cited as the reason for opposition.
  • Some of Limbaugh's supporters claim that quotes about his comments are fabrications, but many remain unconvinced.
  • The opposing views on Limbaugh's bid reflect the complex and often contentious nature of the debate.

Statistics:

  • 60% of NFL players are black.
  • The St. Louis Rams are worth more than $900 million, according to one estimate.
  • Rush Limbaugh has previously been a member of ESPN's Sunday NFL Countdown.

Sources:

  • AP News (Michele Norris, host)
  • St. Louis public radio (Rachel Lippmann)
  • The St. Louis American (Earl Austin, Jr.)
  • ESPN (Rush Limbaugh, commentator)