Radio host who called Clinton ‘whore’ quits

updated 3:32 p.m. ET April 14, 2008

NEW YORK - Randi Rhodes has quit the Air America radio network, a week after it suspended her for using a derogatory word for Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton during an event in San Francisco.

Air America Media released a statement Thursday saying the talk show host informed the company Wednesday night that she was severing ties with the liberal network.

“We wish her well and thank her for past services to Air America,” said the statement issued by Air America Media chairman Charlie Kireker and its president, Mark Green. They didn’t announce who might replace her.

The network suspended Rhodes indefinitely for what it said was “abusive, obscene language” during an off-air event sponsored by affiliate KKGN-AM in San Francisco on March 22.

During a curse-filled standup routine, Rhodes ranted about Clinton, called former congresswoman Geraldine Ferraro “David Duke in drag,” and joked that both women were “whores.” Ferraro resigned from Clinton’s presidential campaign after she got in trouble for what some considered racially insensitive remarks about Barack Obama.

Rhodes’ comments weren’t broadcast, but a video of her performance circulated on the Internet.

Rhodes’ lawyer, Robert Gaulin, said the company had told the host she couldn’t begin broadcasting again unless she made contract concessions.

“Their actions caused the contract to terminate. They refused to give her her microphone back and put her on the air,” he said. “It was a real shame. She was ready, willing and able to go to work.”

Gaulin said Rhodes is exploring other broadcasting options.