I used to think so, too. Thought so for about four years, in fact. But after listening to him pretty steadily for about four, maybe five years, it finally began to dawn on me that I was wrong. So are you.
Hugh is a moderate pointy-headed intellectual with little practical knowledge of how the real world works. The man defended uber-liberal Erwin Chemerinsky's appointment to UCI law school on lofty, "noble" principle that was flawed and pompous from the git-go -- that's when Hugh really forfeited my respect. He lives in a theoretical philosophical dream world (plus he has HORRIBLE taste in music and cars!).
I thought the same way that you do about Hugh for so long that I figured Romney must be a pretty viable and good candidate ... then I started listening to Romney's words and paying attention to ALL the things he says, not just the sound bites. I was amazed that Hugh could be such a dumb bunny -- but then again, Romney is an Eddie Haskell, and Hugh is the quintessential dork mark for every Eddie Haskell ever born. Hugh is gullible and limited. He's so gullible that he thinks Rick Warren is great stuff -- AGAIN, out of respect for Hugh's opinion, I was inclined to regard Warren in a positive light ... until I read his book "Purpose Driven Life" and actually had dealings with and around the fringes of his Flock. Once again, I learned how FLAWED Hugh Hewitt is.
A great lawyer, no doubt, and a true pit bull in interviews, skilled at getting liberals to eviscerate themselves on national radio -- but a moderate nonetheless.
I listen to at least the first hour of HH's show about 4 times a week...for at least the past 5 years. I think I know him pretty well.
Without doubt, HH is not as conservative as I am... but, he's pretty darn good. Fact is, folks, if we're going to build a MAJORITY, we HAVE to have some 'moderates' on our side. Hugh's good... He supports and agrees with most every true conservative. But, he understands the other side too... and, he's good with tactics. I don't ALWAYS agree with him.... but, usually. And, I definitely like his style and effectiveness.