Ratings Drop for Limbaugh, Hannity Radio Shows

The popularity of right-wing radio shows—including Rush Limbaugh's and Sean Hannity's afternoon programs—has declined steeply in recent months, according to a new report from Arbitron.

Limbaugh’s and Hannity’s WABC shows have been stuck in a ratings slump since last year’s midterm elections, with Limbaugh’s ratings dropping 33 percent from October, and Hannity’s falling 28 percent from its fall peak. Ratings for fellow conservative Mark Levin experienced a similar decline.

Meanwhile, ratings for WABC’s Don Imus and John Batchelor—both somewhat more moderate personalities—actually rose from the previous year.

A spokeswoman for Premiere Radio Networks, which syndicates the talk shows, told Crain’s that the company isn’t worried about the report, since Limbaugh and Hannity “continue to be No. 1 and No. 2.”