Megyn Kelly criticized George Stephanopoulos for not questioning Lindsay Clancy’s lawyer after he made an unusual request for President Trump to pardon his client, following a mistrial in the Massachusetts murder case.
The criticism came after attorney Kevin Reddington appeared on “Good Morning America,” where he made a direct appeal to Trump regarding Clancy, who is facing state charges for the deaths of her three children.
Reddington stated, “Perhaps Donald Trump, who felt compelled to speak out about this case, may very well — 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.”
Stephanopoulos wrapped up the segment without probing Reddington about the pardon request, which left Kelly incredulous.
She commented, “It would have been nice if George Stephanopoulos would have asked him one follow-up question, which is: Why would you be asking for a pardon when your client is charged with a state crime, something for which the president cannot pardon her?”
Kelly questioned the logic behind the pardon request given that the charges were under state law. “What do you mean a pardon? Your client’s been charged under state laws. President Trump can’t pardon that,” she added.
While acknowledging that tight time slots on morning shows might play a role, Kelly argued that the interview lasted long enough for Stephanopoulos to ask for clarification.
She said, “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—Instead, you just leave everyone confused.”
Kelly also took issue with Stephanopoulos for not challenging Reddington’s comments about the juror who had held out after seven days of deliberation that did not yield a unanimous verdict.
Reddington expressed that he respected the juror’s right to remain firm but went on to criticize him for not applying the reasonable-doubt standard as instructed by the judge.
Kelly argued that Reddington’s attack on the juror was unwarranted, pointing out that the juror had dedicated almost two months to the case, and again felt Stephanopoulos should have pressed back.
“Wouldn’t it have been nice if we had a competent journalist sitting across from Reddington,” Kelly said.
Reddington also mentioned he was open to discussing a plea agreement with Plymouth County District Attorney Tim Cruz instead of pursuing another trial.
“I hope however, after sitting through this trial and seeing the evidence that was presented from the government as well as from the defense, that he would revisit that issue,” Reddington remarked.
The Post has requested comments from ABC News and Reddington.
