BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Conservative outlets criticized a Birmingham television anchor for closing a newscast with a quote attributed to the founder of the Muslim Brotherhood, calling it inappropriate amid ongoing national debates over extremism.
Ashonti Ford, an evening anchor at ABC 33/40, ended a recent broadcast by saying, “Before we go, a quote from the founder of the Islamic Brotherhood: The quieter you become, the more you’re able to hear.” The remark, attributed to Hassan al-Banna, prompted swift backlash from 1819 News and Yellowhammer News, which labeled it a reference to a “terror-linked” figure and questioned the station’s judgment.
In a statement from ABC 33/40, it was explained that the quote was chosen by the news station’s editorial staff, and not the on air talent .
ABC 33/40, owned by Sinclair Broadcast Group — often accused by critics of promoting right-wing viewpoints — issued a statement addressing the backlash, acknowledging the concerns raised by conservative outlets over anchor Ashonti Ford’s use of the quote. The station emphasized its commitment to balanced reporting and community reflection, while standing by Ford’s intent to share an inspirational message.
Ford, who joined ABC 33/40 last fall after more than a decade in local news, continues to anchor evening newscasts, according to the station’s website. The response has not quelled criticism from 1819 News and Yellowhammer News, which continue to question the choice amid national debates on extremism.
The incident highlights tensions in local media, where outlets like 1819 News and Yellowhammer News, once known for sharp conservative commentary, now face accusations of feigned outrage in a post-Trump landscape. Some observers dismissed the criticism as overblown, noting the quote’s benign phrasing and questioning why a moment of reflection drew such scrutiny from sources with their own ideological leanings.