Mr. Dobbs, meanwhile, has reinvented himself as an outspoken advocate for what he calls middle American causes, highlighted by his campaign against illegal immigration. Mr. Ailes, who said he admires Mr. Dobbs, compared the CNN anchor’s approach with Fox’s leading opinion- dealer, Bill O’Reilly. “I think Lou got a peek at O’Reilly’s contract and saw what you can make doing opinion — particularly if you’re cranky.”