Now Nader challenges Rush Limbaugh for GM 'payola'

Rush Limbaugh

WASHINGTON – He's been the target of Fairness Doctrine advocates.

He's been the target of aggressive prosecutors.

He's been targeted by Customs officials.

And now Rush Limbaugh, the king of radio talk-show hosts, is being targeted by activist Ralph Nader who is asking the Federal Communications Commission to investigate claims General Motors "payola" is influencing him to say nice things about the U.S. automaker.

Ralph Nader

In a letter to the FCC, Nader, who made a name for himself challenging the safety of GM cars and who has parlayed his consumer activist fame into a personal fortune and bids for the presidency, has requested an investigation into the advertising practices of the automaker with regard to several radio personalities.

The charge was first made in an Automotive News story titled, "Puff Piece: Rush Limbaugh is one of the radio personalities GM is working with to talk up its vehicles." The article said GM supplies Limbaugh and other broadcasters and DJs with test vehicles, private meetings and VIP tours of GM facilities.

Nader charges this type of promotion may be against FCC laws requiring disclosure of payments for endorsements.

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He quotes Limbaugh as saying:

• "GM has a ton of momentum."

• "GM cars and trucks have never been better."

• "They [GM] are working hard and they are thinking smart. Believe in General Motors, folks."

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