In a high-profile legal victory, President-elect Donald Trump settled a defamation lawsuit against ABC News and anchor George Stephanopoulos, with the network agreeing to pay $15 million to a Trump-related foundation and $1 million in attorney fees. The agreement also includes an apology from ABC News and an appended editor’s note expressing “regret” for inaccurate statements made on air.
The settlement, finalized in a federal court in Miami, represents a significant win for Trump, who accused Stephanopoulos and ABC of defaming him by incorrectly stating on television that he was found liable for the rape of writer E. Jean Carroll.
The lawsuit stemmed from comments Stephanopoulos made during a broadcast, where he stated that Trump had been found liable for rape. In reality, a jury in a civil case filed by Carroll determined that Trump had sexually abused and defamed her but did not find him liable for rape.
Adding to the confusion, a federal judge in New York ruled last year that it was acceptable to say Trump was found liable for rape in “common modern parlance.” Trump’s legal team argued that this interpretation was misleading and damaging to his reputation, particularly as he campaigned for a second term in the White House.
As part of the settlement, ABC News will attach an editor’s note to the online article associated with Stephanopoulos’ comments. The note will clarify the context and express the network’s regret for the misstatement. An ABC News spokesperson confirmed the resolution in a statement:
“We are pleased that the parties have reached an agreement to dismiss the lawsuit on the terms in the court filing.”
The settlement also avoids depositions, which a federal magistrate judge had ordered for both Trump and Stephanopoulos. They were scheduled to sit for four-hour sessions the following week to provide sworn testimony.
The defamation case against ABC News is one of several lawsuits Trump has pursued against media outlets and political opponents. Throughout his presidential campaigns, Trump has leveraged legal disputes to bolster his narrative of being unfairly targeted by powerful institutions and individuals.
This strategy appears to have paid off. The case against ABC and Stephanopoulos not only secured a financial settlement but also fueled Trump’s messaging about bias in mainstream media.
Trump’s legal actions against major outlets like CNN and The Washington Post have also drawn significant attention, keeping his perceived battles against the media at the forefront of public discourse. However, these lawsuits are not without potential risks. As Trump prepares to enter his second term, ongoing cases could demand his time and attention, potentially complicating his administration’s agenda.
The settlement has elicited strong reactions from Trump supporters and critics alike. For Trump’s base, the outcome is seen as vindication of his long-standing claims about media bias. Trump himself took to social media, hailing the settlement as a victory against “fake news.”
Critics, however, point out that the settlement does not constitute an admission of wrongdoing by ABC News. They argue that the network’s decision to settle reflects a pragmatic desire to avoid prolonged litigation rather than an acknowledgment of defamatory intent.
This case reignites the broader conversation about media accountability, particularly in politically charged environments. Trump has often accused major media outlets of spreading misinformation about him, while critics counter that his legal actions are attempts to intimidate the press.
In this instance, the settlement highlights the fine line journalists must walk when discussing legal matters involving high-profile individuals. The initial remarks by Stephanopoulos—though rooted in the nuances of legal rulings—demonstrate how even slight inaccuracies can lead to costly legal battles and reputational damage.
As Trump gears up for his second term in office, the conclusion of this lawsuit removes a potential distraction from his political agenda. However, it also underscores the challenges he may face in balancing ongoing legal disputes with his duties as president.
Observers speculate that Trump’s legal strategy is unlikely to change. He has shown a willingness to take on powerful entities, from media organizations to tech giants, as part of his broader political brand.
The $15 million settlement between Donald Trump, ABC News, and George Stephanopoulos represents more than just a legal victory. It underscores the contentious relationship between Trump and mainstream media while highlighting the high stakes of reporting on politically polarizing figures.
With the settlement behind him, Trump enters his second term emboldened by another win in his ongoing battle with the press—a narrative likely to resonate with his supporters as he seeks to implement his vision for America.
4 Comments
Why is Stephanopanpoulos still on the air? Can anyone answer this question?
Another insider LYING Crook that should be in jail not bullshitting on TV!
Make ABC and Staphylococcus aureus pay off Trump’s fines in the E. Jean Carroll case. That would be fair.
Finally this arrogant obnoxious fake news liar being held accountable.