In an unexpected turn of events, ABC News has settled a defamation lawsuit with President-elect Donald Trump, agreeing to pay $15 million following the false assertion by anchor George Stephanopoulos regarding Trump's legal liability for rape. The misstatements occurred during a contentious interview with Congresswoman Nancy Mace on March 10, 2024, where Stephanopoulos inaccurately claimed that Trump had been found "liable for rape" by judges and juries, reiterating this falsehood multiple times throughout the broadcast.
Trump Secures $15 Million Settlement in Defamation Case Against ABC News
Trump Secures $15 Million Settlement in Defamation Case Against ABC News
ABC News reaches a landmark agreement with Donald Trump over false statements made by anchor George Stephanopoulos, leading to a significant payout.
The civil case in question, which found Trump liable for sexual abuse, was distinct from the rape allegations due to the nuanced definitions outlined under New York law. The settlement's provisions require ABC News to contribute $15 million to a presidential foundation in Trump's name, along with a $1 million payment towards his legal fees.
In addition to the financial aspects, ABC News will publicly express regret through an editor’s note appended to the original online report of the interview. The statement acknowledges the inaccuracies of Stephanopoulos's claims, which have led to significant reputational damage and legal repercussions for Trump.
This settlement arrives amid a backdrop of various legal challenges for Trump, including previous rulings where he was ordered to pay substantial sums related to defamation and sexual abuse cases. Trump has also initiated other lawsuits against major news outlets like CBS and CNN, alleging misleading or deceptive conduct concerning his public persona.
Despite the controversies, Trump continues to wield significant influence in U.S. politics, with numerous legal battles highlighting the intersection of media representation and political accountability in the current landscape.
In addition to the financial aspects, ABC News will publicly express regret through an editor’s note appended to the original online report of the interview. The statement acknowledges the inaccuracies of Stephanopoulos's claims, which have led to significant reputational damage and legal repercussions for Trump.
This settlement arrives amid a backdrop of various legal challenges for Trump, including previous rulings where he was ordered to pay substantial sums related to defamation and sexual abuse cases. Trump has also initiated other lawsuits against major news outlets like CBS and CNN, alleging misleading or deceptive conduct concerning his public persona.
Despite the controversies, Trump continues to wield significant influence in U.S. politics, with numerous legal battles highlighting the intersection of media representation and political accountability in the current landscape.
