ABC Exits Debate Hosting After Backlash, Fox to Hold Next Debate: “We Can’t Afford It Anymore”

ABC Exits Debate Hosting After Backlash, Fox to Hold Next Debate: “We Can’t Afford It Anymore” (Page 3 ) | September 17, 2024

The spokesperson went on to lament the network’s struggle to balance journalistic integrity with the need for entertainment. “We wanted to provide a platform for serious political discourse, but apparently, that doesn’t play well with today’s audiences. People don’t tune in to debates for the truth—they tune in for the spectacle. And quite frankly, we’re tired of paying for it.”

Enter Fox News, the media giant that has never shied away from controversy—or a good ratings opportunity. The moment ABC made its retreat, Fox was ready and waiting, announcing that it would take over the hosting duties for the next debate. And according to insiders, Fox is more than happy to ditch the fact-checking in favor of a debate that promises to be pure, unfiltered entertainment.

“We’re thrilled to take over the debate hosting,” said a Fox executive with a grin that suggested he was already counting the ad revenue. “At Fox, we believe in letting candidates speak their minds—no matter how ‘creative’ those minds might be. Our viewers don’t want a play-by-play fact-check, they want a show. And we’re going to give it to them.”

Fox News has already hinted at plans to spice up the debate format, possibly adding a “wild card” round where candidates can address conspiracy theories or hypothetical scenarios (think: “What would you do if aliens invaded during your presidency?”). It’s exactly the kind of unpredictable, ratings-driven spectacle that Fox thrives on—and one that’s likely to pull in viewers by the millions.