Full Breakdown
Jessica Tarlov Navigates Trump Criticism and a New Book at Fox News
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Trump Criticisms and Tarlov’s Position on *The Five*
Jessica Tarlov, the lone liberal co-host of Fox News’ panel *The Five*, repeatedly confronts public attacks from former President Donald Trump while maintaining her role after signing a new three-year contract. Trump has called for her removal, yet Tarlov says Fox News leadership continues to back her.
Background & Context
Tarlov joined *The Five* as a co-host in 2022, becoming the network’s sole liberal voice on a program that averages 3.5 million daily viewers (Nielsen). Her career began with guest spots on Sean Hannity’s show in 2016, leading to a permanent panel position. She has authored the forthcoming book *I Disagree: Winning Arguments Without Losing Friends*, scheduled for release on September 15, 2026.
Data & Statistics
- Daily audience for *The Five*: 3.5 million (Nielsen).
- Contract length: three years (renewed 2026).
- Book length: 272 pages; price $30.
Official Statements & Responses
Tarlov asserts that Fox News chief executive Suzanne Scott and the network’s leadership “know exactly who I am” and want her to continue her work. She explains that feeding Trump’s criticism would only worsen the situation and that the network’s policy is to ignore such attacks. Tarlov also notes that former co-host Jeanine Pirro reportedly defended her to Trump.
Criticism & Opposition
Donald Trump has publicly urged Fox News to fire Tarlov, organizing petitions and email campaigns to Suzanne Scott. He has described her on-air presence as “grating and irritating.” These criticisms have not altered her contract status.
Verbatim Quotes
- “No. I mean, I think that [Fox News chief executive] Suzanne Scott and the entire leadership team know exactly who I am, and that they want me to keep doing what I’m doing,” — Jessica Tarlov, right wing activist
- “With Jesse, it’s very sibling-y, and they like the pointed back-and-forth and how we have relationships, frankly, that mirror what their real lives look like. I think it’s soothing in that way.” — Jessica Tarlov, right wing activist
- “Interruptions are an indication that you’re winning,” — Jessica Tarlov, right wing activist
- “We don’t talk politics outside of work,” — Jessica Tarlov, right wing activist
Timeline
- 2022 – Tarlov promoted to co-host of *The Five*.
- 2024 – Birth of second daughter.
- 2026 – Signed three-year contract renewal (date not specified).
- September 15, 2026 (scheduled) – Release of *I Disagree*.
Why It Matters / Impact
Tarlov’s presence provides a liberal perspective on a predominantly conservative platform, exposing a broad audience to cross-ideological dialogue. Clips of her arguments circulate widely on social media, influencing younger viewers who consume news outside traditional cable. Her ability to remain on the show despite presidential criticism illustrates Fox News’ stance of not yielding to external pressure, potentially shaping how networks handle dissenting voices in polarized media environments.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
No source provides the exact wording of Trump’s petitions or the full content of his on-air remarks, leaving a gap in the public record of his specific accusations against Tarlov.
