Community Corner
Fox Anchor Suspended Over Tweet About Vaccines For Obese People
A news anchor with a Fox affiliate in D.C. was suspended over a tweet that criticized eligibility requirements for the COVID-19 vaccine.
WASHINGTON, DC — Blake McCoy, a news anchor with a Fox affiliate in Washington, D.C., was suspended from his job over a tweet that criticized COVID-19 vaccine eligibility.
“I’m annoyed obese people of all ages get priority access before all essential workers,” McCoy, who works for WTTG, a local Fox affiliate, tweeted Tuesday. “When most stayed home, we went into work everyday last March, April, May and everyday since putting ourselves & loved ones at risk. Vaccinate all essential workers. Then obese.”
A Fox 5 spokesperson confirmed that McCoy had been suspended for the tweet. “Blake McCoy has been suspended from WTTG-Fox 5 pending further review,” a spokesperson told People.
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McCoy issued an apology later on Tuesday, saying he deleted the tweet because it was “insensitive and offensive."
“I truly regret my words and want to apologize,” McCoy tweeted.
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Earlier today I Tweeted something insensitive and offensive. I truly regret my words and want to apologize. I have deleted my tweet and ask that you accept my sincere apology.
— Blake McCoy (@BlakeMcCoyDC) February 23, 2021
On Thursday, D.C. residents ages 18 and up with specific medical conditions became eligible to reserve a vaccine appointment. Among the qualifying conditions is obesity.
The WTTG website says McCoy has served as co-anchor on Fox 5 News’ weekday news shows at 4 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 8 p.m. and 9 p.m.
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