He has indeed, and it's his success / size of listening audience that gives him that power.
I'm also in the boat with those who were at least disappointed by what Rush didn't bring up (for example, the question of Obama's eligibility). From the get-go, back in the late 1980's, I knew that Limbaugh was avoiding the really sticky issues. He knows he is one of the elites, and he plays by the elite's rules. He gave Arlen Specter a pass on some nonsense that Specter spouted during a call-in by the then senator. Limbaugh never fessed up to being duped, but I'm sure he knew it - maybe in advance, certainly within a day after.
Still, on balance, he's been a powerful force for good.
-- But the edge is gone and it is time for the next fresh generation to take up the battle standard. --
There are plenty of contenders. I don't see any of them getting the kind of success that Limbaugh enjoyed. But that's okay too. Baseball goes on, even without Babe Ruth.
Baseball goes on, even without Babe Ruth.
From my perspective it's time to hang up your jersey, ball cap and glove when you can't slide into home plate anymore.