‘What you say matters’: Dave Ross backs editorial standards after Jimmy Kimmel controversy
Sep 18, 2025, 1:52 PM
Former KIRO Newsradio host Dave Ross joined “The Gee and Ursula Show” to share his perspective on whether Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension following his Charlie Kirk joke was justified.
Ross stressed that while the suspension might appear to be censorship, it was ultimately a corporate decision by ABC, not a government action, meaning the First Amendment does not apply.
He noted that Kimmel remains free to speak online, where his content is still widely available. Still, Ross acknowledged increasing anxiety among media professionals about expressing controversial opinions, particularly in today’s polarized climate.
“Don’t feel guilty for editing yourself. I think there needs to be at least one or two media outlets that still do that. What you say matters,” Ross said. “When you’re on the air talking to thousands of people, it’s different than when you’re drunk in a bar trying to grab the attention of your friends. That’s the purpose of broadcasts like this. We’re supposed to consider our words before we utter them before a large audience.”
Listen to the full conversation above.
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