Lou Dobbs, veteran broadcaster, dies at 78
Lou Dobbs, an American conservative political commentator and former television host, has died. He was 78 years old.
Former President Donald Trump first confirmed the news of his death in a post on Truth Social.
"The Great Lou Dobbs has just passed away — A friend, and truly incredible Journalist, Reporter, and Talent," Trump wrote. "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!"
The news was later confirmed on Lou Dobbs' X account.
"It's with a heavy heart that we confirm the passing of ‘the great Lou Dobbs.’ Lou was a fighter until the very end – fighting for what mattered to him most, God, the family, and the county," the post stated. "Lou’s legacy will forever live on as a patriot and a great American. We ask for your prayers for Lou's wonderful wife Debi, children and grandchildren."
No other information, including his cause of death, was revealed.
File: Lou Dobbs hosts "Lou Dobbs Tonight" at Fox Business Network Studios on December 13, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Steven Ferdman/Getty Images)
Dobbs joined CNN in 1980 as a host and reporter covering business. Then, in 2011 he left to Fox Business, where he hosted the top-rated show Lou Dobbs Tonight for 13 seasons until it was canceled in 2021.
Fox News Media said in a statement that the network was saddened by Dobbs’ passing.
"An incredible business mind with a gift for broadcasting, Lou helped pioneer cable news into a successful and influential industry," the statement said. "We are immensely grateful for his many contributions and send our heartfelt condolences to his family."
Dobbs was named in a lawsuit against Fox News by Dominion Voting systems over lies told on the network about the 2020 presidential election. A mediator in 2023 pushed the two sides toward a $787 million settlement, averting a trial. A mountain of evidence — some damning, some merely embarrassing — showed many Fox executives and on-air talent didn’t believe allegations aired mostly on shows hosted by Dobbs, Maria Bartiromo and Jeanine Pirro. At the time, they feared angering Trump fans in the audience with the truth.
Dobbs dove into the complex public policy and economic issues that drive society.
Dobbs said he always wanted to be straight with his viewers about his own views on issues.
"My audience has always expected me to tell them where I’m coming from, and I don’t see any reason to disappoint them," he said in 2011.
Other politicians paid their condolences to Dobbs and his family on social media.
"We’re all praying for Lou Dobbs, his family, and staff. Lou was a great American and will be deeply missed," Rep. Jim Jordan wrote on Twitter.
Rep. Matt Gaetz also wrote, "I am saddened to hear about the passing of the great Lou Dobbs. My heartfelt condolences go out to the Dobbs family during this difficult time."
This is a developing story. The Associated Press contributed.