The only raw intellect that rivals Savage on conservative radio is Michael Medved (probably the most intelligent and well spoken commentator our side has).
Between Savage and Medved, all else being equal I would rank Medved #1 by a hair, and all things not being equal by a slightly wider margin because he keeps his cool consistently, something Dr Savage doesn't do.
Savage is shocking with his insights - his brilliance, to me anyway, is when he goes down memory lane, tells a personal story or historical anecdote, and dovetails the moral of the story into the political topic of the day. Often his insight and brilliance is simply astounding - he is really in a class by himself in that respect.
Both Medved and Savage know their history and know the facts, which is much more than many radio and tv commentators know. They are both a pleasure to listen to
Savage by far has led the most interesting life of the conservative commentators, and as you say he is a very fascinating man. Any day that he isn't around or has a sub host I tend to get bummed - like my favorite uncle is supposed to visit my house on his way home from work daily and hangs out for a couple of hours talking about stuff while I cook my dinner, do some work, etc.
Savage Rules.
Any idea if he is taking the Jewish holdiay this week off? It will be a looong Savage-less weekend if he does!
I enjoy listening to him as well...he is annoyed at 98% of the things I am annoyed with in this world....LOL! I also laugh a lot while listening to his show....sometimes I laugh till I cry too...;)