In a move that broadens its conservative influence even further, Salem Media Group has acquired PJ Media, bulking up its already diverse TownHall Media digital empire.
A key executive said that the Camarillo, Calif., company will add PJ Media to its stable that includes Townhall, HotAir, RedState, Twitchy, and Bearing Arms.
“We’re excited to add PJ Media to the Townhall Media network,” said Salem Vice President and General Manager Jonathan Garthwaite. “PJ Media has done great work covering the issues that impact the future of the country. Townhall Media’s reach at a critical point in our nation’s history grows tremendously with PJ on our team,” he added.
He said that the addition of PJ Media will boost Townhall Media’s footprint to over 15 million unique readers each month.
PJ Media regularly breaks news and is a favorite of the Drudge Report, which gives it a permanent link on the homepage.
Salem is known for reaching Christian and conservative audiences through its radio, print, and digital platforms. It has 117 radio stations in 38 markets. Show hosts include Hugh Hewitt, Dennis Prager, and Sebastian Gorka.
Salem also owns Washington publisher Regnery.
Garthwaite told Secrets that he has long sought PJ Media. “I’ve had a lot of respect for what they’ve done, their style, and their strong journalism.”
PJ started as “Pajamas Media” in 2004, founded by blogger Charles Johnson and screen producer Roger L. Simon.
PJ Media’s former CEO Aubrey Chernick said, “I am honored to have worked with an amazing group of writers to build PJ Media into the respected, trusted and established brand it is today. Now, there is an opportunity to continue to expand PJ Media’s voice and brand and distribute its content to an even bigger audience.”
Salem’s president of New Media, David Evans, added, “This is an exciting time for Salem and Townhall Media. In an age where many are struggling to figure out what a successful business model for online journalism looks like, we are continuing to grow and adapt in the changing environment and are thrilled to add PJ Media to the Salem family and serve even more Americans with quality news, analysis, and opinion on the most important topics of the day.”
