Trump Escalates Legal Campaign Against Media Organizations

President-elect Donald Trump files lawsuits targeting media outlets, raising concerns over press freedom and potential chilling effects on journalism.

Trump has launched multiple lawsuits against media organizations, including The Des Moines Register and ABC News, accusing them of defamation and election interference.
A lawsuit against The Des Moines Register and pollster J. Ann Selzer alleges manipulation of pre-election polling data to favor Kamala Harris, despite Trump winning Iowa by a significant margin.
ABC News recently settled a defamation suit with Trump for $15 million after anchor George Stephanopoulos incorrectly stated Trump was found liable for rape in a civil case.
Experts warn that these lawsuits, even if unsuccessful, could deter critical reporting and create financial strain on smaller media outlets, potentially undermining press freedom.
Trump's legal actions signal a broader strategy to confront media criticism, with his allies hinting at further measures such as prosecuting journalists and threatening advertisers.