Tia, free speech does not mean you are limited to your own time slot. Free speech gives you the right to speak your mind. Limbaugh did speak his mind in this case - his comments went out over the air.

However, this is not a case of free speech. The free speech is owned by ABC in this particular case, not the individuals. Football is a sports program and presented for entertainment value.   Limbaugh WAS a paid employee of that network. The "producers" have a right to present what they feel is appropriate.   If I went to the producer and said I want 5 minutes to speak my mind, I would be turned down - and rightfully so.

The other "fact" is that Limbaugh resigned. He may have been given the option of either resigning or being fired, but we will probably never really know the truth.