Lou Dobbs, a longtime business news anchor and prominent supporter of Donald Trump, died on Thursday, July 18, 2024 at the age of 78. His death was announced through a statement on his official social media account, which described him as a “fighter till the very end.”

Dobbs had a distinguished career in broadcast journalism, beginning with his work at CNN in 1980. He joined the network at its inception and anchored the business news program “Moneyline.” Dobbs was a key figure at CNN for over two decades before leaving in 2009 to assist Rupert Murdoch in launching the Fox Business Network.

“Lou was one of the CNN originals, who helped launch and shape the network. We are saddened to hear about his passing and extend our sincerest condolences to his wife Debi, children, and his family,” a CNN spokesperson said.

As Donald Trump’s influence in Republican politics grew, Dobbs became one of his most vocal supporters. He used his program to promote anti-immigrant rhetoric and criticize the so-called “deep state.” His support for Trump’s false claims about the 2020 election led to significant legal issues for Fox News. Dominion Voting Systems sued Fox for defamation, resulting in a $787 million settlement last year. Smartmatic’s lawsuit, which also names Dobbs, is still ongoing.

These legal challenges prompted Fox Business to cancel his show, “Lou Dobbs Tonight,” in February 2021.

Former President Donald Trump praised Dobbs, calling him a friend and “truly incredible journalist, reporter, and talent.” Trump added, “He understood the World, and what was ‘happening,’ better than others. Lou was unique in so many ways, and loved our Country. Our warmest condolences to his wonderful wife, Debi, and family. He will be greatly missed!”

Fox News, which Dobbs joined in 2011, also expressed their condolences. “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Lou Dobbs. An incredible business mind with a gift for broadcasting, Lou helped pioneer cable news into a successful and influential industry,” a Fox News Media spokesperson said. “We are immensely grateful for his many contributions and send our heartfelt condolences to his family.”

Dobbs’ career was not without controversy. His departure from CNN in 2009 was partly due to his promotion of the “birther” conspiracy theory about President Barack Obama’s birthplace.

Despite the controversies, Dobbs’ impact on cable news was significant. He was instrumental in shaping CNN’s business news coverage and later brought his distinct style to Fox Business. His support for Trump and promotion of populist ideas earned him both a dedicated following and substantial criticism.

Lou Dobbs is survived by his wife, Debi Lee Segura, and their children. No cause of death has been disclosed. Fans and colleagues have taken to social media to pay tribute to Dobbs, remembering him as a pioneer in cable news and a passionate commentator.

“Lou’s legacy will forever live on as a patriot and a great American,” a statement on his social media account said. “Lou was a fighter till the very end—fighting for what mattered to him the most, God, his family, and the country.”