Imus did try to do some good, with his foundation and camp for children with cancer. One big difference between Imus and the ‘journalists’ Tyrell is referring to is that Imus didn’t try to pass himself off as an expert, or to label his show ‘news’.
The larger effect of Imus's humor and commentary was a thorough disregard for the pretensions of politicians and celebrities and a sense of humanity as deeply flawed. Imus was a modern Diogenes of sorts, honorably of the ancient school of Cynic philosophy.
Notably, Imus did have a news segment of his show read by news and radio professional Charles McCord. As banter and comment made clear, McCord, who is now retired, was a conservative and often the adult who reeled Imus back from the brink.