A Blow To A Brand

Former CT Gov. John Rowland

Former Connecticut Governor John Rowland abruptly stepped down last week from his afternoon radio show on WTIC News/Talk 1080.   Now we are learning of his indictment on federal charges in a campaign financing scandal.    This is the second time the once popular three-term Republican governor has faced the prospect of a prison sentence.   As a follower of political news, I think another conviction should take Rowland off the comeback trail for good.   As a broadcaster, I feel this is a serious problem for a once mighty radio station owned by a company that should know better.    Who will replace Rowland?   How much damage has been done to WTIC's image?

CBS isn't the only company to own a powerful heritage AM station that has transitioned to primarily conservative talk, but as a group they have kept things relatively classy.   Their WCBS/New York, WBZ/Boston, KYW/Philadelphia and other information outlets have stayed above the fray of bombastic right wing talking points.   Why can't WTIC do some variation closer to what these other CBS stations do so well?   It is the only 50,000 watt AM signal in Connecticut and used to get some of the highest shares of audience in any market.   Those exceptional days are long gone as moderate and liberal voices are excluded from all programs except newscasts.   Right wing ranters who champion Tea Party extremism are falling out of favor with younger adults and advertisers.   Does WTIC have no alternative other than Rush Limbaugh and Connecticut versions of him who fail to speak to the fastest growing groups in our society?    Now that Rowland's gone, maybe he can take Limbaugh with him.   Good riddance.