In a recent episode of her podcast, The Megyn Kelly Show, she defended her decision, saying, “I can support a candidate and still report the news fairly. My job is to ask tough questions, no matter who’s in office.” But can a journalist truly remain impartial after publicly backing a polarizing figure like Trump? Let’s dive into Kelly’s career, her rocky history with Trump, and why this endorsement is turning heads.
From Law to Journalism: Megyn Kelly’s Unconventional Rise
Before she was grilling politicians on prime-time TV, Megyn Kelly was a corporate lawyer—a career she left behind in 2003 to pursue journalism. Her sharp legal mind and no-nonsense interviewing style quickly made her a standout at Fox News, where she hosted America Live and later The Kelly File.Kelly became a household name during the 2016 election cycle when she famously clashed with then-candidate Donald Trump during a GOP debate. Her pointed question about his treatment of women sparked a feud that lasted years, with Trump attacking her on social media and Kelly firing back with critiques of his behavior.
Despite the tension, Kelly built a reputation as a tough but fair interviewer—until 2017, when she left Fox for NBC. Her short-lived stint there ended in controversy after she defended blackface Halloween costumes, leading to her abrupt departure. Since then, she’s reinvented herself as an independent media personality with a successful podcast and a loyal following.
The Trump Endorsement: A Full-Circle Moment?
Given their history, Kelly’s Trump endorsement surprised many. But in her explanation, she cited concerns over President Biden’s policies and the state of the country as her motivation. “I didn’t leave the Democratic Party; the Democratic Party left me,” she said, echoing a sentiment shared by many conservative-leaning independents.
Critics argue that endorsing a candidate—especially one as divisive as Trump—undermines her credibility as a journalist. Kelly disagrees, maintaining that transparency about her views doesn’t negate her ability to report objectively. “I’ve always been honest about my biases,” she said. “The key is being upfront so the audience can decide.”
Can a Journalist Also Be a Political Supporter?
This isn’t the first time a journalist has crossed into political advocacy, but it’s rare for someone with Kelly’s profile to do so so openly. Traditional journalism ethics discourage reporters from publicly endorsing candidates to preserve neutrality. Yet, in today’s media landscape, where opinion-driven shows dominate, the lines are increasingly blurred.Kelly’s stance reflects a growing trend of hybrid commentators who blend reporting with opinion. Whether audiences accept that model depends on how much they value transparency over traditional objectivity.
Final Thoughts: Is Megyn Kelly Still a Journalist?
One thing’s for sure: Love her or hate her, Megyn Kelly isn’t afraid to speak her mind—and that’s exactly why people keep listening.
What do you think? Can a journalist endorse a candidate and still be trusted? Let us know in the comments.
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