A federal judge in Washington has officially dismissed the final component of a lawsuit brought against Fox News by a journalist who was terminated in 2022. The case involved allegations that the network violated sick leave laws and targeted the employee for his political viewpoints.

Dismissal of Sick Leave Violation Claim

U.S. District Judge Amir Ali ruled against former journalist Jason Donner on Monday, dismissing the claim related to sick leave. This ruling resolved the last active issue in the federal court case.

Donner was fired after allegedly failing to provide adequate notice when taking a sick day. The termination followed a contentious phone conversation with his supervisor regarding the absence.

Fox News Policy Upheld

Judge Ali determined that Donner’s actions were not protected under the District of Columbia’s sick leave statute. The court noted that Fox News policy mandates that an ill employee contact a supervisor as soon as possible, and no later than two hours past their scheduled start time.

Separately Dismissed Political Retaliation Claim

The lawsuit originally included a separate claim alleging that Donner was fired as part of a “purge” of staff. Donner contended that this action was retaliation for refusing to report information intended to “appease” then-President Donald Trump and his base during his initial term.

Donner stated he was present inside the Capitol on January 6, 2021. He claimed he contacted the control room to express outrage when Fox News initially described the rioters as peaceful.

Previous Ruling on Editorial Disputes

This political retaliation claim was dismissed earlier in 2024 by U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper. Judge Cooper stated that while the amended 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 choices.