I used to watch the McLaughlin Group decades ago because there wasn’t much else on TV. Areas where I lived only had 2 or 3 channels/networks. PBS came into being and the McLaughlin Group was one of their programs.
In later years, it seemed that McLaughlin became more left-leaning. Partly because of the times it aired and the commentators, I quit watching.
As old McG signs off each show with his trademark ‘bye bye’.
It was a bit entertaining watching him play the old, bile-filled, crumudgeon of a host. Reminded me of a boss I had years ago in both looks and demeanor.
It was the only thing on at one time, three libs to one conservative and McLaughlin. Crossfire was on too, beginning in 1981 or so. I remember poring over American Spectator’s and Commentary Magazine back then, just to get something besides liberal poison. Rush and the internet changed a lot of things.
I quit watching when Eleanor declared Clinton and Gore the “beefcake ticket,” and lectured us all on the Year of the Woman. That was 22 years ago. Haven’t watched that show in a very long time. She reminds me of my mother in law, and they have the same temperament and views.
Lawrence O’Donnell used to be on there and he would almost be spitting as he was blasting Republicans. Looked like the idiot Olberman. McLaughlin got rid of him quickly.