New York Jets owner Woody Johnson vehemently denied reports he made racist and sexist remarks in his role as ambassador to the United Kingdom.
Johnson tweeted Wednesday afternoon he has “followed the ethical rules and requirements” in his position, also saying the reports are “totally inconsistent with my longstanding record and values.”
I have followed the ethical rules and requirements of my office at all times. These false claims of insensitive remarks about race and gender are totally inconsistent with my longstanding record and values.
— Ambassador Jane Hartley (@USAmbUK) July 22, 2020
The rebuttal comes after CNN reported Woody Johnson has made derogatory remarks about women and the Black community during his time as UK ambassador:
Robert Wood “Woody” Johnson, the top envoy since August 2017 to one of the United States' most important allies, made racist generalizations about Black men and questioned why the Black community celebrates Black History Month, according to exclusive new information shared with CNN by three sources and a diplomat familiar with the complaints to the State Department inspector general.
His comments about women's looks have been “cringeworthy,” a source with knowledge of the situation said, and two sources said it was a struggle to get him on board for an event for International Women's Day.
The story also noted Woody Johnson initially did not refute the allegations when brought to his attention, instead remarking on the privilege of working as an ambassador.
But the pressure against Johnson is mounting, including and especially from members of the Jets organization. Jets safety Jamal Adams sent out multiple tweets in response to the report.
The NFL seems to have some serious issues at ownership levels. No more than a week ago, reports surfaced indicating Washington owner Dan Snyder and Co. had established a hostile working environment, particularly for women.
Johnson has also exposed himself to criticism, though he denies he made such remarks.
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