AM 560 and Morning Host Dan Proft Agree to Multi-Year Contract Extension
Rhea-AI Summary
Salem Media (OTCQX: SALM) announced a two-year contract extension with Chicago morning host Dan Proft that will keep him on AM 560 The Answer (WIND-AM) through the end of 2027. The extension affirms Proft as the market's longest-running morning talk show host since joining AM 560 in 2015. Management framed the deal as strengthening the Chicago Morning Answer brand and its conservative talk lineup. Proft thanked management, listeners, and guests and reiterated his commitment to the program.
Positive
- Secures Dan Proft as AM 560 morning host through end of 2027
- Reinforces Chicago Morning Answer brand and conservative lineup
Negative
- None.
Key Figures
Market Reality Check
Peers on Argus
SALM slipped 0.55% with modest volume while peers were mixed: CMLS -6.54%, TMGI -15.73%, FHLD -9.28%, SBSAA and PSRU flat. The softer move in SALM versus sharper declines in some peers points to a more stock-specific reaction than a broad broadcasting-sector swing.
Historical Context
| Date | Event | Sentiment | Move | Catalyst |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 05 | Show launch | Positive | +2.5% | Launch of The Jake Underwood Show on WHK-AM 1420. |
| Dec 18 | Host extension | Positive | -1.0% | Three-year extension for Joe Piscopo on AM 970 The Answer. |
| Dec 17 | Lineup change | Positive | -2.4% | New SRN weekday midday lineup featuring Alex Marlow and Scott Jennings. |
| Nov 17 | Content release | Positive | -3.9% | Exclusive streaming of “Call Sign Courage” on SalemNOW. |
| Nov 12 | Show addition | Positive | -5.5% | Addition of That KEVIN Show to SRN lineup replacing Eric Metaxas. |
Recent content and programming announcements have more often been followed by negative next-day moves, with only one of the last five such releases aligning positively with the news tone.
Over the last few months, Salem Media has focused on programming and lineup changes across its network. On Nov 12, 2025, it added “That KEVIN Show” to the SRN lineup, and on Nov 17, 2025, it promoted the film “Call Sign Courage” on SalemNOW. December brought a new midday SRN lineup and a three-year extension for Joe Piscopo on AM 970. On Jan 5, 2026, Salem launched The Jake Underwood Show in Cleveland. Today’s host contract extension fits this ongoing strategy of strengthening on-air talent and programming.
Market Pulse Summary
This announcement, centered on broadcast programming and talent, aligns with Salem’s recent focus on strengthening its on-air lineup and content offerings. Historical news over Nov 2025–Jan 2026 shows multiple show launches, time-slot changes, and host extensions. Investors may watch how such moves affect audience reach, advertising demand, and overall brand positioning, especially with the stock trading below its 200-day MA and close to its 52-week low.
AI-generated analysis. Not financial advice.
CAMARILLO, Calif., Jan. 15, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Salem Media (OTCQX: SALM) announced a new two-year contract extension with Chicago morning talk show host Dan Proft, which will keep Proft on AM 560 The Answer (WIND-AM) through the end of 2027.
“The combination of Dan Proft’s intellect and his exceptional interviewing skills is why he’s the best morning radio host in Chicago,” said John Gallagher, regional vice president and general manager of AM 560 The Answer. “His knowledge of the issues that affect the people of Illinois is unmatched. This contract extension solidifies the Chicago Morning Answer brand and the top conservative talk radio line-up in the nation.”
“I'm excited to extend my run on Chicago's Morning Answer, and I am honored to be trusted with such an important platform during these turbulent times,” said Dan Proft. “Nothing short of the future of the United States and Western civilization, by extension, is on the line, and I'm humbled to be able to lend my voice to the fight. I want to thank AM 560's management, along with our loyal, intelligent listeners and our accomplished and thoughtful guests, for their ongoing support.”
As host of Chicago’s Morning Answer since 2015 when he joined AM 560, Proft is the longest-running morning talk show host in the market. Previously, Proft had been heard on WLS-AM in Chicago.
Proft was born and raised in Wheaton, IL, and graduated from Northwestern University and Loyola University School of Law. He has managed many political campaigns and political action committees and has served in various leadership capacities in state and municipal government since 1994. Following his run for governor in 2010, Proft became a radio talk show host.
Proft has served on the boards of directors for many organizations, including GiGi’s Playhouse — a non-profit organization committed to changing lives and providing hope through the consistent delivery of free educational, therapeutic, and career development programs for individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and the community — and Cure CMT — a non-profit organization that provides direct funding for braces and surgery so people living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease can move with confidence, reduce pain, and regain independence.
About Salem Media
Salem Media is America’s premier multimedia company specializing in Christian and conservative content. Through its national radio network, digital platforms, and publishing brands, Salem reaches millions daily with powerful content that drives the national conversation. Learn more at salemmedia.com.
Company Contact:
Publicity@salemmedia.com
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9e081329-2f8a-468e-b347-0a94b6b11438
FAQ
What did Salem Media (SALM) announce about Dan Proft on January 16, 2026?
How long has Dan Proft hosted Chicago's Morning Answer on AM 560 (SALM)?
Does the SALM announcement change AM 560's programming lineup?
When does Dan Proft's new contract with SALM expire?
Will Dan Proft continue to be the morning host on WIND-AM under the SALM deal?
