A federal judge in Washington D.C. has dismissed the final claim in a lawsuit brought against Fox News by a journalist who was terminated in 2022. The suit, filed by former employee Jason Donner, included allegations related to sick leave violations and political targeting.

Dismissal of Sick Leave Violation Claim

U.S. District Judge Rules Against Donner

U.S. District Judge Amir Ali ruled in favor of Fox News on Monday, dismissing the sick leave claim, which was the last active issue in the federal court case. Donner had accused the network of violating D.C.'s sick leave laws following his firing.

The judge determined that Donner’s actions were not protected under the District of Columbia’s sick leave statute. Fox News policy requires an ill employee to contact a supervisor as soon as possible, but no later than two hours after their scheduled start time.

Donner's termination in 2022 stemmed from accusations that he failed to provide adequate notice when taking a sick day. This incident was reportedly compounded by a contentious and unflattering phone conversation with his supervisor regarding the absence.

Previous Dismissal of Political Retaliation Claim

Allegations of Editorial Pressure

Earlier in the litigation process, Donner had raised separate accusations that his firing was part of a broader “purge” of staff. He claimed employees were being removed for refusing to report information designed to “appease” then-President Donald Trump and his supporters during his initial term.

Donner stated he was present inside the Capitol on January 6, 2021. He further alleged that he contacted the control room to object when Fox News initially characterized the rioters as peaceful.

Judge Cooper's 2024 Ruling

In 2024, U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper dismissed this political claim. Judge Cooper noted that while Donner’s complaint suggested termination due to speaking out against Fox’s reporting, no established public policy prevents the network from severing ties with an employee who objects to its editorial direction.

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