“After making an on-air apology, I asked for permission to take some additional time out around the Thanksgiving holiday,” Bashir said in an email first obtained by
Mediaite Wednesday. “Upon further reflection, and after meeting with the president of MSNBC, I have tendered my resignation. It is my sincere hope that all of my colleagues, at this special network, will be allowed to focus on the issues that matter without the distraction of myself or my ill-judged comments.”
“I deeply regret what was said, will endeavor to work hard at making constructive contributions in the future and will always have a deep appreciation for our viewers – who are the smartest, most compassionate and discerning of all television audiences. I would also wish to express deepest gratitude to my immediate colleagues, and our contributors, all of whom have given so much of themselves to our broadcast,” Bashir said.
Bashir became known for his particularly brutal takedowns of conservative politicians and pundits, but his Palin comments prompted an especially strong backlash. In an
apology several days after his remarks, Bashir said he had brought “shame” on his MSNBC colleagues.
“Martin Bashir resigned today, effective immediately. I understand his decision and I thank him for three great years with MSNBC,” network president Phil Griffin said in a statement to TheBlaze. ”Martin is a good man and respected colleague – we wish him only the best.”
A spokeswoman for MSNBC said there would be no further comment on the matter.
