Lou Dobbs, a veteran business news anchor and staunch advocate of Donald Trump, passed away on Thursday, July 18, 2024, at 78 years old. The news was made public via an official statement on his social media, which paid tribute to Dobbs as a “fighter till the very end.”
Dobbs began his illustrious career in broadcast journalism at CNN in 1980, anchoring the business news program “Moneyline.” He was a pivotal contributor to CNN for over 20 years before departing in 2009 to assist Rupert Murdoch in establishing the Fox Business Network.
A CNN spokesperson said, “Lou was one of the CNN originals, who helped launch and shape the network. We are saddened to hear about his passing and extend our sincerest condolences to his wife Debi, children, and his family.”
As Donald Trump’s power grew in the Republican party, Dobbs emerged as one of his most vocal supporters. He leveraged his program to disseminate anti-immigrant sentiments and criticize the perceived “deep state.” His endorsement of Trump’s unfounded allegations about the 2020 election precipitated significant legal problems for Fox News. Dominion Voting Systems filed a defamation lawsuit against Fox, leading to a $787 million settlement in the previous year. The Smartmatic lawsuit, which also implicates Dobbs, is still pending.
These legal disputes led to the cancellation of Dobbs’ show, “Lou Dobbs Tonight,” on Fox Business in February 2021.
Former President Donald Trump commended Dobbs by calling him a friend and a “truly incredible journalist, reporter, and talent.” Trump said, “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!”
Fox News, where Dobbs began working in 2011, also expressed their condolences. “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Lou Dobbs. An incredible business mind with a gift for broadcasting, Lou helped pioneer cable news into a successful and influential industry,” a Fox News Media spokesperson noted. “We are immensely grateful for his many contributions and send our heartfelt condolences to his family.”
Dobbs’ career was not immune to controversy. His exit from CNN in 2009 was partly attributed to his promotion of the “birther” conspiracy theory concerning President Barack Obama’s birthplace.
Notwithstanding the controversies, Dobbs’ influence on cable news was substantial. He played a crucial role in shaping CNN’s business news coverage and later brought his unique style to Fox Business. His advocacy for Trump and his promotion of populist ideologies earned him a dedicated fan base as well as significant criticism.
Lou Dobbs is survived by his wife, Debi Lee Segura, and their children. The cause of death has not been disclosed. Fans and fellow broadcasters have paid tribute to Dobbs on social media, remembering him as a trailblazer in cable news and a fervent commentator.
