Sox..
You are drawing parallels where there aren't any.
Channel One is a PRIVATE enterprise, the McCarthyism you speak of was on organized GOVERNMENT endeavor - and yes, it was truly frightening.
The stations, in response to their listeners (read money base) have suspended the Chicks. It's their prerogative. They can play 14th century baroque IF their audience asks for it.
Like I said, Maines made her bed and she can lie in it. And, FYI, I was a HUGE fan before the stupid bimbo opened her mouth.
"Never anger a dragon, for thou art crunchy and go well with brie."
Viv