Conservative radio host and commentator Hugh Hewitt has resigned from his position as a contributing columnist at a major newspaper, following a heated exchange on a live online program. The incident, which occurred on Friday, November 1st, 2024, stemmed from a discussion about a leading presidential candidate’s rhetoric surrounding election integrity.
Hewitt, known for his conservative viewpoints and nationally syndicated radio show, had been a contributing columnist for the newspaper since 2017. His departure marks the latest in a series of events surrounding the newspaper, including its recent decision not to endorse a presidential candidate in the upcoming election – a move that sparked controversy and reportedly led to staff resignations and subscription cancellations.
The on-air dispute began during a discussion of pre-election lawsuits and accusations of voting irregularities. Hewitt clashed with another commentator on the program, arguing that certain aspects of the candidate’s claims had been validated by court rulings, specifically mentioning a case in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. He stressed the importance of presenting the full story, even in opinion pieces, emphasizing the role of commentators as “news people.”
The exchange escalated when the other commentator accused Hewitt of frequently making factually inaccurate statements. In response, Hewitt removed his earpiece, stood up, and declared he would not return to the program, characterizing the segment as an “unfair election ad.” He then abruptly left the live broadcast. The program continued briefly with technical difficulties before ultimately ending early.
Hewitt’s resignation from the newspaper comes at a time when its ownership is reportedly seeking to broaden its range of viewpoints, including adding more conservative voices. His departure is seen as a setback to this effort.
Beyond this recent incident, Hewitt has a long and varied career in media, law, and government. He served in multiple roles in a prominent presidential administration in the 1980s and later led a presidential library and museum. He’s also a law professor and has authored numerous books, some focusing on the intersection of faith and politics.
Hewitt’s public pronouncements about the current presidential race and past elections reveal a complex and at times evolving stance. He has been critical of the leading candidate’s temperament but has also expressed support for the candidate at different points. He’s sparked controversy with his commentary on various political and social issues, including immigration policy. He’s known for his in-depth interviews with political figures and commentators on his radio show, often challenging guests to defend their positions.
This incident highlights the heightened tensions and polarization surrounding the upcoming election. Discussions about election integrity have become increasingly contentious, with accusations of bias and misinformation from both sides of the political spectrum. The role of media, particularly opinion journalism, in shaping public perception of these issues is under intense scrutiny. Hewitt’s departure from the newspaper adds another layer to the ongoing debate about media representation and the diversity of voices in political discourse.
