Megyn Kelly has criticized ABC News anchor George Stephanopoulos for what she described as a failure to adequately challenge attorney Kevin Reddington, who is representing Lindsay Clancy, a woman charged with killing her three children. The controversy stems from Reddington's appearance on "Good Morning America" following a mistrial in Clancy's case.
During the interview, Reddington appealed directly to former President Donald Trump, suggesting he consider a pardon for Clancy. "Mr. President, I would hope that you would consider this young lady, the type of person she is, what she’s been through, and consider a pardon," Reddington stated. Stephanopoulos did not press Reddington on this request.
Kelly, hosting "The Megyn Kelly Show," expressed disbelief at Stephanopoulos's handling of the interview. She argued that Stephanopoulos should have questioned the legal basis of a presidential pardon for a client charged under state law, as a president can only pardon federal offenses. "What do you mean a pardon? Your client’s been charged under state laws. President Trump can’t pardon that," Kelly stated.
Kelly suggested that while time constraints on morning television could be a factor, there was sufficient time for Stephanopoulos to seek clarification on Reddington's remarks. "God forbid you blow a break or you actually just take the time that’s necessary to clarify what in God’s name your guest is talking about," Kelly said, adding that such omissions leave viewers confused.
Further criticism from Kelly targeted Stephanopoulos's response to Reddington's comments about a holdout juror in the case. After seven days of deliberations, the jury could not reach a unanimous verdict, leading to a mistrial. Reddington had expressed frustration that the juror, according to a note from the foreperson, "had doubt but he would not apply the law of reasonable doubt as presented by the judge."
Kelly accused Reddington of launching a baseless attack on a juror who had served for nearly two months. She again faulted Stephanopoulos for not challenging this criticism, suggesting that a "competent journalist" would have pushed back on Reddington's statements.
Reddington also informed Stephanopoulos that he was open to discussing a potential plea agreement with Plymouth County District Attorney Tim Cruz, rather than proceeding with another trial. He expressed hope that the district attorney would reconsider the issue after reviewing the evidence presented by both the prosecution and the defense. ABC News and Reddington have been contacted for comment.