How bad is AirAmerica doing? The local affiliate in Austin just switched over to become another one of the ubiquitous Spanish language AM stations here in Texas -- despite the fact that Austin may be the most liberal spot in Texas.

Air America, the home for defiantly liberal talk radio, has quit AustinÂ’s air waves, though it can still be heard online or on XM Satellite Radio. Its previous broadcasting home in Austin, KOKE 1600 AM, has started following a Spanish-language format.

Dave Kaufman, Air America’s vice president of affiliate relations, said Monday the shift happened last week as part of an expected change in station ownership. “Definitely disappointed,” Kaufman reacted. “Whenever we lose any affiliate, it’s disappointing. This was an affiliate better than many, not as good as others. And in a state capital, it’s tough” to take the loss.

A dismayed blogger dug up Arbitron ratings suggesting low listener-ship on the Austin outlet: “Can’t even pull 1 percent in Austin, TX? Amazing but true. don’t ask me why. This is a city that is overwhelmingly Democratic, but the right-wing talk radio stations in town consistently get much better ratings.”

Kaufman played down the ratings, though, saying: “Many stations have better ratings, many have lesser ratings.”

If they can't make it there, can they make it anywhere? I don't think so.

And yet somehow the liberals are deluding themselves into expecting liberal victories in Texas next year.

Posted by: Greg at 10:50 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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