Right‑wing commentator Megyn Kelly attacked alleged Cornell University gang rape victim Jane Doe, calling her “not the most attractive” and suggesting she may have sought attention. Kelly questioned whether the student enjoyed the situation and criticized the delay in reporting the alleged assault.
Jane Doe, a 20‑year‑old former Cornell student, filed a lawsuit alleging she was drugged and raped by seven men at the Chi Phi fraternity house in Ithaca in 2024. The allegations have sparked protests on campus and attracted global attention. New York Attorney General Letitia James opened a criminal investigation. Several of the men were expelled, though none has been charged and all deny wrongdoing.
The university shut down the Chi Phi chapter and suspended or expelled students. Cornell’s administration defended its actions, stating that consequences were imposed. Students and advocacy groups demanded greater accountability. New York Governor Kathy Hochul criticized the police and district attorney for failing the victim and appointed the attorney general to oversee the criminal investigation, calling for an independent review of the university’s handling.
Cornell President Michael Kotlikoff released an apologetic video, acknowledging the troubling issues raised by the case and pledging transparency and a commitment to finding answers. The investigation continues as the attorney general’s office and independent review examine the university’s response to the allegations.
