Usually, when referring to a famous person who has died, the term: 'the late...' is used, generally as a sign of respect. The length of time for use of 'the late' is somewhat proportional to the level of fame of the person.
That sentence should read:
"once petitioned the late Rush Limbaugh, who was a well known talk show host"
Maybe I am making too much of it, but I see it as small slap in the face, one directed at Rush.
Not only that, but how do you petition a deceased person? Have a séance?
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That hit me right between the eyes when I read it also.
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