Fox News Veteran Accuses Network of 'Malpractice' for Ignoring Guilfoyle Scandal

3 min read
Source: Mediaite
Fox News Veteran Accuses Network of 'Malpractice' for Ignoring Guilfoyle Scandal
Photo: Mediaite
TL;DR

Former Fox News executive Ken LaCorte publicly criticized his old employer for failing to report on the corruption allegations surrounding U.S. Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle. LaCorte, who led FoxNews.com until 2016, called the silence 'journalistic malpractice' driven by fear, noting that the network had not published a story on Guilfoyle since December 2024. This criticism emerged as President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio considered firing Guilfoyle over allegations that she solicited $100,000 from a donor to cover credit card debt in exchange for political access. While the Wall Street Journal led the initial reporting, other outlets like CNN and the Associated Press have since covered the potential dismissal. LaCorte argued that the lack of coverage harms Fox's reputation among its supporters, though the network did publish a brief update on the firing debate shortly after his post.

Key points

  • Ken LaCorte, former VP of Fox News, accused the network of 'journalistic malpractice' for ignoring the Guilfoyle scandal.
  • LaCorte stated Fox had zero reporting on the issue, with the last related story published in December 2024.
  • The scandal involves allegations that Guilfoyle sought $100,000 from donor Eric Deters to pay credit card debt in exchange for administration access.
  • President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are weighing whether to fire Guilfoyle, with a decision expected soon.
  • LaCorte blamed 'fear and inaction' from middle management for the lack of coverage, warning it damages the network's credibility with supporters.

Background

Kimberly Guilfoyle, a former Fox News host and current U.S. Ambassador to Greece, has faced mounting scrutiny over alleged financial improprieties. Recent reports indicate she may have abused her diplomatic position to benefit foreign business partners and solicited funds from a donor. The State Department's Office of Inspector General has opened a formal investigation, and Greek officials have expressed frustration over the diplomatic fallout. Previous coverage highlighted the tension between the White House's support for Guilfoyle and growing pressure from Democrats and international partners.

How outlets are covering it

Mediaite and The Daily Beast both reported on Ken LaCorte's public criticism of Fox News, emphasizing his use of the term 'journalistic malpractice.' LaCorte contrasted Fox's silence with the Wall Street Journal's extensive reporting on the allegations. While Mediaite noted that Fox eventually published a story about the potential firing after LaCorte's post, The Daily Beast focused on the broader context of Guilfoyle's potential dismissal by Trump. The outlets agreed that the lack of coverage was unusual given the prominence of the story, with LaCorte attributing it to internal fear rather than simple editorial oversight.

Why it matters

The incident highlights internal tensions within Fox News regarding coverage of scandals involving prominent political allies. It raises questions about the network's editorial independence and the influence of corporate leadership on news decisions. For the public, it underscores the ongoing scrutiny of U.S. diplomatic appointments and the potential consequences of alleged corruption in high-level government positions.

What to watch

President Trump is expected to make a decision on whether to fire Kimberly Guilfoyle in the coming days. The State Department's Office of Inspector General will continue its investigation into the allegations. Fox News may face further criticism from its audience if it continues to limit coverage of the scandal, potentially impacting its reputation among conservative supporters.

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