Lou Dobbs, the controversial CNN anchor, announced tonight that he is leaving the cable news network.

Dobbs’ conservative anti-immigration opinions made him a polarizing figure in recent years. He was referred to as “Mr. Independent.”

Dobbs opened his 7 PM broadcast Wednesday night with his resignation. He said he plans to work as more of an activist.

“Over the past six months, it has become increasingly clear that strong winds of change have begun buffeting this country and affecting all of us, and some leaders in media, politics and business have been urging me to go beyond the role here at CNN and to engage in constructive problem-solving as well as to contribute positively to a better understanding of the great issues of our day and to continue to do so in the most honest and direct language possible,” said Dobbs, 64.

After a commercial break, he continued delivering then night’s news as if it was headlines as usual. But it wasn’t.

Dobbs “informed his staff members of his intentions in a meeting Wednesday afternoon, catching some of the staffers off-guard,” according to the New York Times.

CNN President Jonathan Klein called Dobbs “a valued founding member of the CNN family.”

“For decades, Lou fearlessly and tirelessly pursued some of the most important and complex stories of our time, often well ahead of the pack,” said Klein. “All of us will miss his appetite for big ideas, the megawatt smile and larger-than-life presence he brought to our newsroom, and we’re grateful to have known and worked with him over the years.

“With characteristic forthrightness, Lou has now decided to carry the banner of advocacy journalism elsewhere. We respect his decision and wish him, Debi [Dobbs' wife], and his family the very best.”

Dobbs has been at CNN since the cable news network began in 1980, except for a two-year stint at a website. As noted in the Times, he “evolved over the years from a straight-laced business anchor to an outspoken commentator who rails against illegal immigration and taxpayer bailouts, among other subjects.”

Dobbs’ voice was the loudest among those saying that President Obama was not a U.S. citizen. Last month, New Jersey State Police investigated reports of errant gunfire outside Dobbs’ home.

In September, Dobbs met with Fox News chairman Roger Ailes, fueling speculation he might move from CNN. However, Fox denied any move was being discussed.”

CNN’s Klein described the parting as “amicable.”

“I will be eternally gratefully to CNN, Ted Turner, all my colleagues and friends, and of course to you at home,” said Dobbs. “I thank you, and may God bless you.”

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