Major Restructuring at Salem News Channel: Veteran Hosts Shift Roles in Broadcasting Shakeup

Salem Media Group, Inc. (OTCQX: SALM) has unveiled significant programming changes across its Salem Radio Network and Salem News Channel platforms, set to take effect starting Monday, January 13th. The moves mark a strategic repositioning of key on-air talent to better serve the network’s growing audience during a pivotal period in national affairs.

The Host Swap: New Time Slots, Fresh Opportunities

In a notable shift, seasoned broadcaster Hugh Hewitt will transition from his established morning slot to afternoons, commanding the 3-6pm ET timeframe. This move creates space for Chris Stigall, currently heading morning operations at Philadelphia’s AM 990 The Answer, to assume the influential 6-9am ET position on Salem Radio Network.

The change comes as Dr. Sebastian Gorka concludes his six-year tenure in the afternoon slot. Gorka is departing to take on the role of Deputy Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Counterterrorism in the Trump administration—a role President Trump himself endorsed, praising Gorka as “a tireless advocate for the America First Agenda and the MAGA Movement.”

Both Hewitt and Stigall will extend their reach beyond traditional radio, with their programs also simulcast across Salem News Channel, the company’s 24/7 streaming news and opinion network that broadcasts to 56 markets through platforms including Pluto TV, Samsung TV Plus, and Sling TV.

Expanding Reach and Conservative Media Momentum

Hewitt brings impressive credentials to the afternoon slot, having launched his nationally syndicated program on July 10, 2000, from just eight original stations. Today, his show reaches more than 450 affiliates across Salem Radio Network—a testament to nearly three decades in broadcasting that began in 1990 on Los Angeles’ KFI, supplemented by a decade-long tenure as co-host of PBS’ KCET’s nightly news program.

“Breaking news from Washington DC unfolds primarily during daytime hours, and the afternoon slot positions me perfectly to provide real-time analysis and perspective,” Hewitt explained. “Salem stands as the premier conservative media enterprise, and I’m energized about these years ahead reaching listeners during their commute home rather than to work.”

Stigall, who has anchored morning broadcasts across markets from Kansas City to Philadelphia since 2006 and has spent the past six years with Salem, expressed enthusiasm about the expanded opportunity. “Salem has become a national voice for conservative media and free speech during consequential times,” he remarked. “This role represents the culmination of a professional calling that’s been part of my identity since childhood, and I’m grateful to work alongside management that shares these values.”

Industry Recognition and Strategic Positioning

Phil Boyce, Senior VP of Spoken Word at Salem Media Group, acknowledged the significance of Gorka’s departure while highlighting the caliber of his replacements. “Though we regret losing a strong on-air presence in Dr. Gorka, we’re thrilled to provide these platforms to Hugh and Chris,” Boyce stated. “This represents an exciting moment for conservative news and talk programming, particularly as our audience remains deeply engaged with the new administration’s transition.”

Salem News Channel’s status as a 24/7 streaming destination reinforces the company’s digital-forward strategy, ensuring both programs reach audiences through modern distribution channels alongside traditional radio affiliate networks.

Next Steps for Station Partnerships

For broadcast stations interested in carrying these programs, Salem has designated affiliate relations representatives by region:

East Coast & Central Region (Minnesota to Louisiana)
Jim Bligh | jbligh@srnradio.com | 212-419-4663

West Coast & Midwest Region (North Dakota to Texas)
Kelli DeShan | kdeshan@srnradio.com | 972-707-6882

Salem Media Group continues positioning itself as America’s preeminent multimedia publisher of Christian and conservative content, serving millions daily through radio, digital platforms, and publishing ventures.