The challenge is that most Americans are not used to the accents from other countries, much less our own in some cases. For example, when I moved from southern Virginia to Minnesota, it was a challenge to answer the hotel’s incoming calls because many couldn’t understand what I was saying. A few years ago, I used to run workshops where the participants were from all over the US, as well as a few other countries. There were often requests from both the facilitators and the participants to ask the speaker to repeat what was said.
When this American bird goes to visit her British bloke, I usually can understand what people are saying, but I have to concentrate really hard. I’m often mentally exhausted by the end of the day. It’s the same when watching a movie with actors who have a different accent. I find myself turning up the volume.
In her defense, if this is the sole reason for being cut, it doesn’t seem right. People are capable of toning down an accent, especially with training or exposure. It isn’t like Ms. Cole is the only one talking on The X Factor, and if she understands that this is a concern and is the only reason she is not the best candidate, then give the lass a chance.
Here is a news video with a couple of other reasons why she might not be a judge on the American version. Note that it hearsay.