What Is the Salem Media Group?

The Salem Media Group is sponsoring the second Republican debate along with CNN. (PRNewsFoto/Salem Communications Corporation)

Salem Media Group, a California-based radio broadcaster that targets Christian and conservative listeners on its Salem Radio Network, which syndicates shows around the country to 2,400 affiliates and online, is co-sponsoring the second Republican debate along with CNN.

One of the broadcasting company’s radio hosts, Hugh Hewitt, is moderating the debate along with CNN anchor Jake Tapper and CNN chief political correspondent Dana Bash.

“Recent history has proved these debates to be of massive interest,” Salem President of Broadcast Dave Santrella said in a statement. “As the exclusive radio provider Salem will provide this important and historic coverage to countless hundreds of thousands in their cars allowing them to have continuous coverage of the debate between us and of course, CNN.” Salem Senior VP of Spoken Word Format Phil Boyce added: “The buzz and excitement about this presidential campaign has eclipsed anything in recent memory, and I am sure this debate will not lessen that enthusiasm.”

According to Salem’s press release, it is “America’s leading Christian and conservative multi-media corporation, with media properties comprising radio, digital media and book, magazine and newsletter publishing. Each day Salem serves a loyal and dedicated audience of listeners and readers numbering in the millions nationally. With its unique programming focus, Salem provides compelling content, fresh commentary and relevant information from some of the most respected figures across the media landscape.”

Salem owns and operates 112 radio stations, with 67 stations in the top 25 media markets. Along with Hewitt, its hosts include Bill Bennett, Mike Gallagher, Michael Medved, Dennis PRager and Eric Metaxas.

Salem also owns Christianity.com, BibleStudyTools.com, GodTube.com, RedState.com, Townhall.com and Twitchy.com. Its publishing unit is the “nation’s leading publisher of conservative books,” and has authors including Ann Coulter, Dinesh D’Souza and Newt Gingrich.

The company was founded by Stuart Epperson and Edward Atsinger III and is a for-profit corporation.

The second Republican debate begins at 6 p.m. with the “early” debate, and then continues at 8 p.m. with a later debate. Salem Radio is also broadcasting the debate.

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