In a landmark victory for President-elect Donald Trump, ABC News and anchor George Stephanopoulos have settled a defamation lawsuit brought by Trump for $15 million. The agreement includes an apology from the network and an editor’s note clarifying misleading statements made about Trump during a broadcast.
The lawsuit stemmed from Stephanopoulos’ televised comments in which he inaccurately claimed that Trump had been found liable for the rape of writer E. Jean Carroll. The reality, however, was more nuanced. A jury had determined that Trump sexually abused and defamed Carroll in a civil suit but did not hold him liable for rape. Despite this, a federal judge in New York ruled that it was acceptable to describe the jury’s findings as rape in “common modern parlance,” adding to the legal and semantic complexity of the case.
Trump’s legal team argued that Stephanopoulos’ comments were defamatory, misleading, and damaging to his reputation, especially as he campaigned for a second term in the White House.
Finalized in federal court in Miami, the settlement requires ABC News to pay $15 million to a Trump-affiliated foundation and an additional $1 million to cover Trump’s attorney fees. As part of the agreement, ABC News must append an editor’s note to the online article linked to Stephanopoulos’ comments. The note will provide clarification and express the network’s regret for the misstatement.
An ABC News spokesperson confirmed the settlement in a brief 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 the need for depositions. A federal magistrate judge had recently ordered both Trump and Stephanopoulos to sit for four-hour depositions the following week, a prospect that both sides seemed eager to avoid.
This case is one of several lawsuits Trump has brought against media outlets and political opponents, a tactic he has frequently employed to amplify his messaging and rally his supporters. Trump has long claimed that mainstream media outlets, including ABC News, have unfairly targeted him, portraying themselves as arbiters of truth while allegedly engaging in bias.
Throughout his political career, Trump has used legal disputes not only to defend his reputation but also to bolster his narrative of being unfairly attacked by powerful institutions. These lawsuits, which include actions against major outlets like CNN and The Washington Post, have become a cornerstone of his political brand.
Critics argue that these legal actions are an attempt to intimidate journalists and suppress freedom of the press. However, Trump’s supporters view them as an essential step in holding the media accountable for perceived biases and inaccuracies.
The $15 million settlement with ABC News is not an admission of wrongdoing by the network. Instead, it reflects a pragmatic decision to avoid prolonged and costly litigation. Nonetheless, for Trump’s base, the outcome is celebrated as proof of the mainstream media’s culpability in disseminating “fake news.”
The lawsuit has reignited a broader debate about journalistic accountability, especially when reporting on politically polarizing figures like Trump. Stephanopoulos’ comments, while rooted in a legal ruling, highlight how even subtle inaccuracies can lead to significant consequences, including legal battles and reputational harm.
This case underscores the challenges journalists face when reporting on complex legal matters involving public figures. While legal rulings often involve nuances and interpretations, the rapid pace of news production can sometimes lead to oversimplified or misleading statements.
The settlement serves as a cautionary tale for media organizations, emphasizing the importance of precision and context when discussing high-profile legal issues.
With this lawsuit now behind him, Trump is better positioned to focus on his agenda as he prepares for his second term in office. However, his legal strategy shows no signs of slowing down. Trump has consistently demonstrated a willingness to take on powerful entities, whether they are media organizations or political opponents, as part of his broader fight against what he calls “a rigged system.”
Observers note that the settlement not only removes a potential distraction for Trump but also adds momentum to his narrative of triumph over the mainstream media. The legal victory is likely to energize his supporters and reinforce his messaging as he seeks to implement his vision for the country.
The $15 million settlement between Donald Trump, ABC News, and George Stephanopoulos is a significant moment in the ongoing clash between Trump and the media. For Trump, it represents vindication and a reminder of his ability to take on powerful institutions. For the media, it serves as a sobering example of the high stakes involved in reporting on controversial figures.
As Trump moves forward, this legal victory is likely to resonate with his base and further galvanize his supporters in his efforts to challenge and reshape America’s political and media landscape.
