'John and Ken' losing some advertisers

Verizon, AT&T Wireless, Ralphs and Vons apparently have pulled their advertising from KFI's hate-mongering (and quite popular) morning afternoon show. Hosts John Kobylt and Ken Chiampou have been right-wing provocateurs for many years, but what got the National Hispanic Media Coalition burning was when the telephone number of a local immigration rights advocate was read on air. Immigrant rights is considered an oxymoron in the world of Ken and Bob, and within minutes, the guy was receiving hundreds of venomous calls. From the Burbank Leader:

After Cabrera's phone number was aired, KFI officials agreed to meet with coalition members, but then canceled, organizers said. Greg Ashlock, market president of KFI's parent company Clear Channel Radio-Los Angeles, said he canceled the meeting when it became clear the organizers wouldn't settle for anything less than firing the radio hosts. KFI officials said they have met with other Latino groups during the past several days "to have an open, fruitful discussion about any concerns they may have," the station said.

That's corporate speak for get lost. There aren't any particulars on how much advertising is involved - or, for that matter, for how long the spots will be pulled. What the Hispanic group really wants is for KFI owner Clear Channel to fire the two hosts, and that's just not going to happen. Profits will always trump responsibility.