Savage sues radio syndicator

SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Conservative radio host Michael Savage has filed suit in California against his syndicator claiming it is trying to force him into "indentured servitude."

Savage's contract with Talk Radio Network expires at the end of 2010 and he has been offered a lucrative deal with competing Courtside Radio, which would include syndication and promotion through the behemoth Westwood One network, The Huffington Post reported.

Talk Radio Network doesn't want Savage to go and is applying a "right to match" clause Savage contends is "indentured servitude," the Post said Thursday.

Newsmax reported the lawsuit filed in federal court in the Northern District of California states TRN "is attempting to force Dr. Savage into accepting a substandard agreement containing what can only be described as an indentured servitude provision. TRN can perpetually renew Dr. Savage's employment ad infinitum, thus completely restricting Dr. Savage's ability to move as an employee," the lawsuit says.

TRN Chief Executive Officer Mark Masters issued a statement saying he has successfully signed and will hold Savage to a contract extension.

"Michael's lawsuit against us is unjustified and frivolous," he said. "Michael's contract is crystal clear, and we are 100 percent confident that the courts will justify our position. The Michael Savage Show will remain on the air."

Savage is the country's third-most listened to radio presenter behind Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity, Newsmax reports.