Behind closed and locked doors, radio commentator Rush Limbaugh was inducted into the Hall of Famous Missourians today in a private ceremony in the Missouri House of representatives. 

In an event announced about 25 minutes before it began and not opened to the general public, Limbaugh’s bust was unveiled before a group made up mostly of Republican lawmakers, along with their staff, Limbaugh’s family and at least two political candidates – U.S. Senate hopeful Sarah Steelman and incumbant Lieutenant Governor Peter Kinder, who also spoke at the event. Highway Patrolmen guarded the entrances to the House Chamber.

Inductees to the Hall are chosen by the Speaker of the Missouri House. Speaker Steven Tilley (R-Perryville) says Limbaugh deserves the honor as an entertainer, and says nothing Limbaugh has said that has garnered controversy should overshadow the whole of his work and accomplishments.

The decision to honor Limbaugh generated contention in recent weeks, especially after a recent scandal during which Limbaugh called a Georgetown law student a “slut” and a “prostitute” after she testified before Congress regarding access to contraceptives.

See the videos of Limbaugh speaking (top) and the other speakers and his introduction (bottom)