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ProPublica found that Fox News falsely portrayed old footage from 2020 protests as current events in Portland while covering resistance to the Trump administration’s immigration policies. The network aired a segment on September 4th, using clips from July 2020 of clashes between law enforcement and protesters outside a federal courthouse, alongside footage of an American flag burning. None of the footage was accurately labeled, implying it was current and in a different location. The network later added an editor’s note clarifying that the report utilized footage from 2020 and 2025.
During a Fox News interview, Donald Trump addressed concerns from a longtime supporter regarding high prices, specifically mentioning the need to lower beef prices and energy costs. Trump argued that energy prices are already down, and that falling energy costs would subsequently lower other prices, and he criticized Republicans for failing to emphasize affordability. He also acknowledged that not being on the ballot affected Republican performance in recent elections. Furthermore, Trump and interviewer Bret Baier noted a disparity between economic successes on Wall Street and the everyday financial struggles of people, which Republicans need to address.
Following a Fox News segment regarding violence against Christians in Nigeria, Donald Trump posted threatening messages on Truth Social. He warned of potential U.S. military action, including halting aid and possibly deploying troops “guns-a-blazing,” if the Nigerian government didn’t act to protect Christians. Trump reportedly instructed the Pentagon to prepare for possible action, and the U.S. Africa Command personnel were recalled to discuss contingency plans. The Nigerian government expressed shock at the threats, while the White House confirmed that the Department of War was planning potential options for action.
During a tense government shutdown nearing the one-month mark, Senator Lindsey Graham was publicly caught attempting to call Sean Hannity, with his iPhone’s Siri announcing the call in full volume. This occurred as the Senate grapples with stalled negotiations and both parties consider “rifle-shot” bills to fund essential services. The shutdown’s primary point of contention revolves around the Affordable Care Act, with Democrats seeking to extend tax credits while Republicans aim to negotiate after the government reopens. This incident adds to a series of eyebrow-raising moments for Graham, including previous audio recordings where he offered critical comments regarding Donald Trump.
White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller defended President Trump’s controversial White House renovations on Fox News, arguing against criticism from the left. Miller claimed the renovations, including the demolition of the East Wing to build a $300 million ballroom, were necessary to beautify the White House and provide space for large events. Despite low public approval and condemnation from public figures, the administration has attempted to justify the demolition, even updating the White House website with a timeline of other controversial events on its grounds.
Following a nationwide protest, estimated to be the largest in US history, Fox News host Jesse Watters criticized the demonstrators on “The Five,” even admitting his mother was among the protestors. Watters accused protesters of being ignorant “trend-chasers” lacking understanding of their cause. The article details Watters’ history of political disagreements with his mother and her concerns about his commentary. Despite the peaceful nature of the protests, Trump responded by denying any kingly aspirations, posting an AI-generated video of himself as a king.
Fox News host Laura Ingraham is joining a business venture with Donald Trump Jr., revealed in a recent SEC filing. The SPAC, “Colombier Acquisition Corp. III,” aims to raise capital for acquisitions, with Ingraham and Don Jr. named as directors. This collaboration raises potential conflict-of-interest concerns, given Ingraham’s regular coverage of the Trump family and her past criticism of Hunter Biden’s business dealings. Media Matters has expressed worries that Ingraham’s financial interests may be tied to the success of the MAGA movement, and that she may face pressure to remain loyal.
Internal surveys from Fox News employees, released as part of a defamation lawsuit, revealed concerns about the network’s editorial standards and the conduct of prominent hosts. Anonymous employees expressed worries that the network favored Donald Trump and the Republican Party, with some questioning their morals and the network’s integrity. These comments, drawn from a 2020 survey, reflect a desire for more factual reporting and less “hateful rhetoric,” particularly from opinion hosts. Despite these concerns, Fox maintains the responses are irrelevant to the lawsuit’s focus on the 2020 election coverage and that the company had been previously certified as a good place to work.
Karoline Leavitt, a former Trump White House press secretary, faced strong criticism for her remarks on Fox News. Leavitt asserted that the Democratic Party’s main constituents include “Hamas terrorists, illegal aliens, and violent criminals.” This statement, prompted by a question about a Democratic mayoral candidate, drew immediate backlash, with many calling her comments divisive and dangerous. Critics demanded her resignation, while others, like Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, condemned the rhetoric for fueling division.
John Q. Hosedrinker