Radio station can't sell any ad for Air America

Manager makes plea to liberals, noting Rush Limbaugh sold out

A California radio station is pleading for advertisers to sponsor the liberal programming of the Air America shows it broadcasts, while noting the conservative Rush Limbaugh show is virtually sold out on its sister station.

"For liberal programming to continue ... you need to support it," said an ad by KOMY station owner Michael Zwerling, according to the Santa Cruz Sentinel.

"You can't be coy in this business," said Zwerling. "You have to spell it out, especially in Santa Cruz where everybody thinks they deserve everything."

Zwerling brought Air America to the Central Coast region of California in July, and during initial negotiations, he says network executives refused to allow Al Franken to share a dial with syndicated radio host Michael Savage, known for statements such as "liberalism is a mental disorder."

"As soon as I said Michael Savage, the door slammed shut," Zwerling said.

Though there has been some letters and calls of appreciation for airing the liberal content, not a single business has purchased air time during Air America's slot since its debut.