ABC Settles Trump Defamation Lawsuit for $15 Million
The settlement includes a financial payout and an apology after George Stephanopoulos falsely claimed Trump was found liable for rape, raising concerns about press freedom.
- ABC News agreed to pay $15 million toward Donald Trump's future presidential library and $1 million in legal fees as part of the settlement.
- The lawsuit stemmed from George Stephanopoulos's inaccurate statements during a March 2024 interview, which claimed Trump was found liable for rape, a claim jurors did not support in court rulings.
- The settlement has sparked debate about the potential chilling effect on media organizations, with some journalists expressing concerns over increased defamation lawsuits.
- Critics noted the contrast in reactions to this settlement compared to Fox News's $787.5 million settlement with Dominion Voting Systems in 2023, highlighting perceived political biases.
- Trump has since vowed to pursue additional lawsuits against media organizations, including CBS and The Des Moines Register, alleging election interference and defamation.
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