After receiving public backlash, ABC 33/40 issued an apology on Monday for on-air comments made by evening anchor Ashonti Ford.

As first reported by 1819 News, Ford, a California native who joined the station in September 2025, signed off the evening broadcast last Thursday with a quote she attributed to the founder of the Muslim Brotherhood, a designated foreign terrorist organization.

"Before we go, a quote from the founder of the Islamic Brotherhood: The quieter you become, the more you're able to hear," she said.

1819 News received multiple emails from readers expressing anger over the comments, which also garnered a response from U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn).

"Pure insanity. The Radical Muslim Brotherhood is a TERRORIST ORGANIZATION," the Senator posted on X.

News director Jeff Cox responded to the public's concerns on Monday on air.

"I want to take a moment to address concerns about our broadcast last Thursday," Cox said. "The intent of our closing segment is always to end the newscast on a positive and thoughtful note. The quote included that evening was not intended to convey any political or ideological message. However, we understand it was perceived that way, and on behalf of the station, I sincerely apologize to those who were offended."

Cox further stated that the quote was selected by the editorial staff ahead of the broadcast, not by Ford.

"Although this quote was read by Ashonti Ford, Ashonti had nothing to do with the selection," he said. "We have addressed the matter internally, and we are making adjustments to ensure our content consistently meets our editorial standards moving forward. We value your trust, appreciate your feedback and we thank you for your loyalty."

Ford anchored the 6 p.m. broadcast on Monday but did not address the controversy.

ABC 33/40 is a subsidiary of Sinclair Broadcast Group.

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