In a landmark legal win, Donald Trump has secured $15 million in damages from ABC News over defamation claims made by George Stephanopoulos.
Digital Worldwide News
December 16, 2024
President-elect Donald Trump announcies his 2024 presidential bid at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Fla in 2022
In a major legal victory for President-elect Donald Trump, ABC News has agreed to pay $15 million to settle a defamation lawsuit over false claims made by anchor George Stephanopoulos. This case has not only resulted in a hefty settlement but also reshapes the way public figures may handle defamation and media responsibility moving forward.
The dispute started after Stephanopoulos made repeated false statements on air during an interview with Congresswoman Nancy Mace on March 10, 2024. Stephanopoulos incorrectly stated that Trump had been found "liable for rape" during a civil case. These comments were not only false but also damaging to Trump’s reputation, especially as the claims were broadcast across millions of homes.
What Led to the Settlement?
Trump, who has been entangled in several legal battles, decided to take action after ABC News allowed Stephanopoulos to repeatedly misrepresent the court's findings in a high-profile interview. While a New York court did rule that Trump was liable for sexual abuse against writer E. Jean Carroll, it specifically did not define the act as "rape" in the technical sense under New York law. Stephanopoulos’ claim, however, misrepresented the legal findings, leading to Trump’s legal team taking swift action.
The lawsuit, first filed in April 2024, accused ABC of defamation, as the false narrative of Trump being guilty of rape persisted throughout the broadcast. Stephanopoulos’ repeated assertions, made at least 10 times during the interview, led to the $15 million settlement, which Trump will use to support his presidential foundation and future library.
Impact on Trump’s Legal and Political Career
The defamation case settlement will see ABC News contribute $15 million to a future Trump presidential library, cementing his legacy for future generations. The deal also includes a $1 million contribution to Trump’s legal fees, helping offset some of his ongoing legal battles. This settlement could have long-term consequences for both media outlets and public figures as they navigate the delicate balance of free speech and defamatory reporting.
In addition to this settlement, ABC News issued an editor’s note acknowledging the mistake, expressing regret for Stephanopoulos’ statements. This is a rare step for a major news outlet, showcasing the seriousness of the defamation claims.
Defamation Lawsuits Are Reshaping Media Accountability
This case serves as a reminder of how powerful media outlets are held accountable for their public statements, especially when they cause damage to a person's reputation or career. Trump’s ability to secure such a substantial sum could encourage other public figures to pursue defamation claims with more determination, especially in high-profile cases where reputations are at stake.
Trump’s legal team was quick to recognize the falsehoods presented in the broadcast, and their aggressive approach resulted in a settlement that could influence future media practices. The case also highlights the shifting landscape of media responsibility when it comes to factual accuracy, especially in an era of instant news.
Trump’s Other Legal Challenges and Media Battles
While this settlement marks a significant win for Trump, it’s part of a larger pattern of legal disputes with media companies. Trump has previously pursued defamation suits against networks like CNN, the BBC, and The New York Times. However, these previous suits have largely been dismissed, with judges finding the claims to be unsubstantiated or lacking in legal merit.
The recent success against ABC News could signal a shift in how defamation cases involving public figures are adjudicated. Trump’s legal team is likely to continue to push for justice in his other ongoing media battles, including his fight with CBS and allegations of deceptive conduct in an interview with Kamala Harris.
A New Era of Media and Public Figure Accountability?
This $15 million settlement isn't just a victory for Trump—it’s a wake-up call for the media industry. News organizations are now more likely to review their fact-checking processes, especially when it comes to sensitive topics involving public figures. The case could mark a turning point in how media outlets handle contentious claims, particularly in live broadcasts or high-stakes interviews.
As Trump’s presidential foundation and future library benefit from the settlement, one has to wonder: Could this legal victory set a precedent for future defamation cases involving public figures and major media outlets? With the ongoing battle between Trump and the press, it’s clear this won’t be the last time we see such high-profile settlements.
A Major Win for Trump, A Cautionary Tale for Media
This settlement is more than just a financial payout; it’s a strong reminder that defamation laws are a powerful tool for public figures to protect their reputations. As Trump continues his legal fights, the settlement with ABC News highlights the increasing importance of fact-checking, media accountability, and the legal battles between news outlets and public figures.
The news world should take heed: a $15 million defamation settlement is a serious signal that public figures are no longer passive in the face of media misrepresentation.
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