Salem Radio Host Chris Stigall Exits Morning Show To Run For Congress.

After 25 years behind the microphone, Chris Stigall says he is stepping away from radio to pursue elected office, announcing plans to run for Congress in Missouri’s 6th District.

The Salem Radio Network morning host made the announcement in a video posted to X, telling listeners the decision followed the unexpected retirement of longtime Congressman Sam Graves.

“I’ve just learned this week that Congressman Sam Graves… has decided to retire, and he’s not going to be seeking another term this fall,” Stigall said, calling the development “very sudden news.”

Framing his candidacy as a shift from commentary to action, Stigall reflected on his career in broadcasting and the political climate that shaped his decision.

“For 25 years, I’ve had the blessing of talking with you about the issues that face our nation,” he said. “But in the last few years, we’ve watched a government that became completely out of control… we’re talking about lives ruined.”

Stigall pointed to pandemic-era policies, including business closures and vaccine mandates, as well as broader concerns about “surveillance and censorship,” as key motivators behind his decision to enter politics.

He also cited Donald Trump as a personal inspiration, referencing what he described as Trump’s willingness to endure political and legal challenges.

“He didn’t need that job, but he cared enough about the country to put it all on the line,” Stigall said. “What President Trump sacrificed… inspired me. It’s hung with me a lot… and frankly, haunted me for a while that I need to do a lot more than just talk about it.”

Stigall said his decision came after “a lot of prayer and careful consideration” with his family, adding that the timing – coinciding with the nation’s 250th anniversary – further influenced his move.

“It’s time to join in the fight… it’s time to put up or shut up,” he said. “That’s why I’ve decided I’m going to leave my show, I’m going to leave this microphone, and I’m going to enter the arena today.”

Salem Radio Network tells Inside Radio that Jen Horn, morning host at “AM 870 The Answer” KRLA Los Angeles and Mark Davis, morning host at “660 AM The Answer” KSKY Dallas, are among the substitute hosts for the next few weeks while a search for a permanent host to succeed Stigall commences.

Closing his announcement, Stigall thanked listeners and directly appealed to voters in Missouri’s 6th District.

“Today I’m going to stop talking and I’m going to start fighting,” he said. “I’m running to earn your vote… I covet your prayers. I thank you for listening, and now it’s time to get to work.”

Stigall joined Salem Media Group’s “Philadelphia`s AM 990 The Answer” WNTP to host mornings in November 2019. In September 2020, he was added to the lineup (10am-12pm) at Cumulus Media’s KCMO Kansas City (710), where he hosted mornings from 2006-2010. He was named morning host for the Salem Radio Network in December 2024, where he succeeded Hugh Hewitt upon his move to afternoons.