Jesse Watters slammed after Michael Steele calls him 'pathetic little tool' for breaching juror anonymity

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Former Republican National Committee chair Michael Steele didn’t hold back his criticism of Fox News host Jesse Watters, who recently stirred controversy by delving into descriptions of the jurors in former President Donald Trump’s hush money trial.

Watters, known for his prime-time show on the conservative network, came under fire from Steele during a segment on MSNBC’s 'The Weekend', where the latter accused him of trying to manufacture controversy.

Michael Steele slams Jesse Watters for breaching anonymity of jurors

Describing Watters as a "pathetic little tool," Steele didn’t mince words in his condemnation of the Fox News host’s actions. Watters had reportedly read off details about the jurors, whose identities are meant to remain anonymous, and suggested implications regarding the trial's outcome.

Steele highlighted the importance of protecting the anonymity of the jurors, pointing out how one juror had to be excused after her identity was compromised. He emphasized that the judge's decision to keep jurors anonymous was deliberate and necessary, especially given the volatile political climate.

"There’s a reason why the judge has made sure these jurors are not known, and there’s a reason why, as we’ve seen and talked about, certain jurors are like, ‘You know what? I don’t even want to be a part of this,’" Steele said before turning the conversation over to Rep Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash).

Pramila Jayapal calls for protection of jurors amid political turmoil

Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, joining the discussion, underscored the broader context of political tensions, referencing her own experience of being threatened due to her political beliefs. She emphasized the need for all jurors to be provided immediate protection, given the heightened political polarization in the country.

“We watched what happened on Jan 6. We watched the former president incite an insurrection. And so I think that this is the thing the country is in the middle of,” Jayapal said. “Those jurors should all have protection immediately. There is no reason why they should not all have immediate protection because I don’t trust the political situation that we’re in.”

Steele concluded his critique by delivering a scathing message directly to Watters, urging him to refrain from speculation and allow the legal process to unfold without undue interference.

"And by the way, Jesse, you have no idea how this jury is going to rule, so just shut the hell up and let it rest,” Steele said, emphasizing the frustration with Watters' behavior and the importance of respecting the integrity of the judicial system.

Public outcry mounts against Jesse Watters' juror disclosures

Social media erupted with condemnation directed at Jesse Watters and Fox News for their handling of the juror details.

One user wrote, "Jesse Waters and Fox should be fined again for disclosing so much information on these jurors. He is a TOOL for sure!"

Another added, "Shame on Jesse Walters and all those involved in focusing on the jurors one by one."

A user said, "Jesse Watters should never be trusted."

One replied, "Little Jesse Waters is being a tool" FACTS!!"

Another commented, "Jesse Waters should be held legally accountable for interfering in this trial."

Someone else added, "Watters should face a contempt of court charge."

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