KUSI-TV controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
Back to profile3 entries
2019
Sandra Maas equal-pay and retaliation lawsuit
Former anchor Sandra Maas sued McKinnon Broadcasting after leaving KUSI, alleging that male employees with less seniority were paid more and that her contract was not renewed after she sought pay parity. The case also raised allegations concerning the station’s treatment of an equal-pay story. In 2023, a jury awarded Maas $1.5 million on a whistleblower claim and found an Equal Pay Act violation, while rejecting her discrimination and malice claims.
2019
Criticism of Duncan D. Hunter interview
KUSI faced criticism over an interview with Congressman Duncan D. Hunter in which the questions were reportedly provided by his staff. The episode prompted concerns about journalistic independence and interview practices.
2014
Controversy surrounding John Coleman’s climate views
Longtime chief meteorologist John Coleman attracted criticism for publicly rejecting the scientific consensus on climate change. His views were discussed in connection with station specials and public presentations during his later years at KUSI.