The Federal Authorities are empowered to initiate forfeiture proceedings if someone is suspected of financially gaining as a result of committing a federal offense. Civil asset forfeiture does not even require a conviction.
Rush Limbaugh has clearly committed treason over the past decades as a demagogue of the right wingnut echo machine. The Federal Statute defines treason as:
Whoever, owing allegiance to the United States, levies war against them or adheres to their enemies, giving them aid and comfort within the United States or elsewhere, is guilty of treason and shall suffer death, or shall be imprisoned not less than five y
"I hope he fails," anyone?
While I am an adamant defender of the 1st Amendment, there are natural limitations to the right of free speech. Inciting hatred, bigotry, and violence, and impugning listens to rally against the Government, are clearly out of bounds of the spirit and intention of the 1st Amendment. Make no mistake about it - this isn't a 1st Amendment issue, this is a hate and bigotry issue.
Rush Limbaugh has made hundreds of MILLIONS of dollars with his bigotry and hatred. He has profited against the suffering of minorities and of the poor working class. And he has done this in a treasonous matter, speaking out against President Obama in racially charged, divisive ways. Critically commenting on his policies is fair game; saying "I hope he fails" is not.
To make an example - and to set a precedent - the Feds should initiate civil asset forfeiture proceedings against Rush Limbaugh, and confiscate his wealth in its entirety. This will prevent future hate mongering and punish Rush for his illegal operation.