Longtime business news anchor, Lou Dobbs, known for his vocal support of Donald Trump, passed away at 78 on July 18, 2024. His death was disclosed through an official statement on his social media account, which portrayed him as a “fighter till the very end.”
Dobbs’ notable career in broadcast journalism started at CNN in 1980. He was a part of the network’s initial team and anchored the business news show “Moneyline.” He was a major pillar at CNN for more than two decades before moving on in 2009 to help Rupert Murdoch establish the Fox Business Network.
A CNN spokesperson expressed their sorrow at his passing, “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 Trump’s influence in Republican politics increased, Dobbs became a staunch supporter. His program often echoed anti-immigrant sentiments and criticized what he termed the “deep state.” His endorsement of Trump’s unfounded allegations about the 2020 election led to significant legal troubles for Fox News. Dominion Voting Systems sued Fox for defamation, leading to a $787 million settlement in the previous year. A lawsuit from Smartmatic, which includes Dobbs as a defendant, is still in progress.
The legal problems led Fox Business to cancel Dobbs’ show, “Lou Dobbs Tonight,” in February 2021.
Former President Donald Trump lauded Dobbs, calling him a friend and “truly incredible journalist, reporter, and talent.” Trump went on to say, “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 joined 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 commented. “We are immensely grateful for his many contributions and send our heartfelt condolences to his family.”
Dobbs’ career was marred with controversies, one of them being his promotion of the “birther” conspiracy theory about President Barack Obama’s birthplace, leading to his departure from CNN in 2009.
Despite the controversies, Dobbs played a major role in shaping cable news. He was instrumental in molding CNN’s business news coverage and later brought his unique style to Fox Business. His support for Trump and his promotion of populist views earned him a devoted audience and a considerable amount of criticism.
Lou Dobbs is survived by his wife, Debi Lee Segura, and their children. The cause of death has not been disclosed. Fans and colleagues have shared their tributes to Dobbs on social media, remembering him as a pioneer in cable news and a fervent commentator.
A statement on his social media account read, “Lou’s legacy will forever live on as a patriot and a great American. Lou was a fighter till the very end—fighting for what mattered to him the most, God, his family, and the country.”