Anti-Science Ailes Demoted at Fox News

When I was in the Navy, I once overheard someone giving some words of wisdom to a brand-new ensign: "Be careful of who you offend because you never know who you might end up working for." Roger Ailes probably should have considered that when he referred to Rupert Murdoch's son, James, as a 'f***ing dope.' The news is he now has to work for him.

Roger Ailes is the anti-science twit who has been running Fox News for the last 15 years. Among other choice pieces pushed by Ailes are climate change denial, insistence second-hand smoke is harmless, and creationism. There is a who list of other 'fair and balanced' violations originating at his desk, but let's stick to the anti-science issues.

Ailes' boss, Rupert Murdoch recently announced he is stepping down as CEO of 21st Century Fox (owners of Fox News). In a curious development, Ailes directed the following statement be read on-air:

Rupert Murdoch would continue to serve as executive chairman, according to Stuart Varney, host of Fox Business Network’s “Varney & Co.” Fox News Chairman and CEO Roger Ailes will continue to run the news network, reporting directly to Rupert Murdoch, according to Fox News Channel.

In a direct slap-down, a spokesman at 21st Century Fox responded with this,

“Roger will report to Lachlan and James but will continue his unique and long-standing relationship with Rupert.” 

Not only is it being reported as a demotion for Ailes, it is being reported he was not warned in advance. That goes straight to the ego.

James Murdoch is a long-time conservationist and has a legendarily bad relationship with Ailes. Now, Ailes has to work for him. It will be interesting to see what changes at Fox News.