Gretchen Carlson suing Roger Ailes for Sexual Harassment
NEW YORK -- Former "Fox & Friends" co-host Gretchen Carlson alleged in an explosive lawsuit filed Wednesday that Fox News Chairman Roger Ailes fired her for rebuffing his sexual advances and challenging a sexist newsroom culture.
Carlson, who spent 11 years at the network, described being ostracized and marginalized by Fox News for pushing back against condescending treatment. After seven and a half years as a co-host on "Fox & Friends," the top-rated cable morning news show,Carlson was reassigned in 2013 to an early afternoon time slot. Fox News terminated her employment on June 23.
In the suit, Carlson claims she tried addressing what she considered to be discriminatory treatment during a September 2015 meeting with Ailes, who allegedly responded that their problems could have been better solved if they had a sexual relationship.
I think you and I should have had a sexual relationship a long time ago and then youd be good and better and Id be good and better," Ailes told Carlson, according to the suit.
In the suit, Carlson accused Ailes,one of the most powerful figures in media and Republican politics, of engaging in persistently sexist behavior. She said he ogled her in his office, asked her to turn around to view her backside, and commented repeatedly on her outfits and her legs.
She also said"Fox & Friends" co-host Steve Doocy engaged in a pattern and practice of severe and pervasive sexual harassment that includedmocking her during commercial breaks, shunning her off air, refusing to engage with her on air, belittling her contributions to the show."
Carlson said she complained about Doocy creating a hostile work environment back in September 2009.
I have strived to empower women and girls throughout my entire career, Carlson said in a statement on Wednesday. Although this was a difficult step to take, I had to stand up for myself and speak out for all women and the next generation of women in the workplace. I am extremely proud of my accomplishments at Fox News and for keeping our loyal viewers engaged and informed on events and news topics of the day.
Fox News did not immediately respond for comment.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
View the lawsuit below.
Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/gretchen-carlson-harassment-lawsuit_us_577d22c1e4b09b4c43c1c624
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