Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin responded Thursday morning to Martin Bashir’s resignation from MSNBC, saying it’s “refreshing” that so many in the media criticized the former host for inflammatory remarks against her.
“In this world, you are going to be hurt, and attacks will come your way,” she said on the “Fox & Friends” couch. “I just hope that unprovoked attacks like that don’t result in people being hesitant to jump in the arena anyway — to get out there and serve the public.”
“It was refreshing to see, though, that many in the media did come out and say, ’Look, our standards have to be higher than this,” Mrs. Palin said.
“One of the things about his attack is it was scripted,” co-host Steve Doocy said. “The people at NBC had a chance to review it and said — they obviously, or apparently, all agreed.”
Co-host Elisabeth Hasselbeck asked if anyone from the National Organization for Women had been in touch.
“[I] haven’t heard from one feminist,” she replied
“I’m sure they’re getting to it,” Mrs. Hasselbeck joked.
“Did you check your voice mail? Nothing?” co-host Brian Kilmeade chimed in.
Mr. Bashir announced his resignation from MSNBC on Wednesday.
“After making an on-air apology, I asked for permission to take some additional time out around the Thanksgiving holiday,” Mr. Bashir said in a statement Wednesday afternoon, Mediaite.com reported at the time.
“Upon further reflection, and after meeting with the President of MSNBC, I have tendered my resignation. It is my sincere hope that all of my colleagues, at this special network, will be allowed to focus on the issues that matter without the distraction of myself or my ill-judged comments.
“I deeply regret what was said, will endeavor to work hard at making constructive contributions in the future and will always have a deep appreciation for our viewers — who are the smartest, most compassionate and discerning of all television audiences. I would also wish to express deepest gratitude to my immediate colleagues, and our contributors, all of whom have given so much of themselves to our broadcast,” he concluded.
• Jessica Chasmar can be reached at jchasmar@washingtontimes.com.
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