ABC pays Donald Trump $15 million to end defamation lawsuit

In the United States, ABC News has reached a settlement in a defamation lawsuit brought by Donald Trump, following inaccurate statements made by anchor George Stephanopoulos regarding a verdict in a sexual abuse case. The case originated from remarks made during a March 2024 interview where Stephanopoulos claimed that a jury had found Trump "liable for rape" in a civil lawsuit filed by writer E. Jean Carroll. However, the findings did not legally classify Trump's actions as rape according to New York law, which led to significant public backlash and legal repercussions for ABC News. The settlement, announced recently, includes a payment of $15 million directed toward Trump's future presidential library, alongside a public apology from ABC News and Stephanopoulos for the erroneous statements made during the broadcast. This settlement comes in the wake of two previous trials in which Trump was found liable for sexual abuse and additional defamation claims against Carroll, resulting in significant financial penalties totaling millions of dollars. ABC News has also agreed to cover $1 million in legal fees for Trump's attorney, Alejandro Brito, highlighting the financial implications of the network's missteps in reporting. The incident reflects broader tensions between politicians and media outlets, particularly regarding the accuracy and portrayal of high-profile legal matters. The agreement allows Trump to dismiss the lawsuit with prejudice, meaning he cannot file again on the same claim, marking a considerable legal win for him. The $15 million will essentially be a charitable contribution to a foundation associated with Trump's library and is viewed as a move to mitigate further damage to Trump’s reputation amidst ongoing legal challenges he faces.