Donald Trump defended Fox News CEO Roger Ailes against allegations of sexual harassment on Thursday. The presumptive Republican nominee told the Washington Examiner, “I think [the allegations] are unfounded just based on what I’ve read. Totally unfounded, based on what I read.”
Former Fox News host Gretchen Carlson filed her lawsuit against Ailes last week and alleged that he fired her for refusing his sexual advances. According to Carlson, Ailes once said her: “I think you and I should have had a sexual relationship a long time ago and then you’d be good and better and I’d be good and better.” Ailes released a statement claiming the allegations were false and that Carlson’s termination was due to law ratings.
Since Carlson’s allegations have come to light, six more women have come forward to accuse Ailes of sexual harassment, including a former Republican National Committee field adviser. Trump joins Fox News anchors Greta Van Susteren, Maria Bartiromo, and Geraldo Rivera in defending the head of the network.
Trump has clashed with Ailes’ network throughout his presidential race, claiming their coverage of his campaign was unfair and feuding with Megan Kelly. Trump eventually declined to appear in one of Fox News’ Republican debates.
The remainder of Trump’s interview with the Washington Examiner will be released next week, during the Republican National Convention.
(via Washington Examiner)