Fox News’ Shep Smith highlighted the importance of “accurate and honest and thorough and fair” journalism as he accepted a professional award on Wednesday night.
Smith, the host of “Shepard Smith Reporting” also said telling the truth was “the duty not only of journalists, but of every person who has the honor of a platform of influence” as he received a First Amendment Award from the Radio Television Digital News Foundation.
Commentators, including CNN’s Brian Stelter, suggested Smith was throwing subtle shade at some of his Fox News opinion-based colleagues with his comments. Smith has a history of doing so, after all, and has been among the few at Fox News who have fact-checked President Donald Trump’s false statements.
He continued:
We must never manipulate or invent. We must never knowingly deceive. Because to do so is a disservice to our audience and potentially injurious to our society. I am convinced that upon those who intentionally misinform, history will poorly reflect.
Smith also warned “the times ahead will test all of us as finders and disseminators of accurate information” and concluded his speech with: “Good night and get it right.”
Check out the clip here: