Smartmatic vs Newsmax: Election Fraud Claims Head to Trial in Delaware

A lawsuit has emerged in Delaware involving Smartmatic, an electronic voting machine manufacturer, and Newsmax, a conservative news outlet. Smartmatic claims that Newsmax aired false and defamatory statements regarding its involvement in vote manipulation during the 2020 presidential election. The case is set to go to trial on September 30, following a ruling by Superior Court Judge Eric Davis, who noted that Smartmatic did not provide any voting machines or software used in the election outside of Los Angeles. Judge Davis indicated that while Smartmatic's claims of express malice by Newsmax were unfounded, the issue of actual malice will be determined by a jury. He also stated that Newsmax could argue it is protected under Florida's neutral reporting privilege, which allows for reporting on matters of public concern without endorsing the allegations. This ruling suggests that the court recognizes the complexity of the case and the potential for differing interpretations of Newsmax's reporting. In a related development, Smartmatic is also pursuing a defamation lawsuit against Fox News in New York and has recently settled a case against One America News Network in Washington, D.C. The ongoing legal battles highlight the contentious atmosphere surrounding the 2020 election and the subsequent claims of fraud that have been widely circulated by various media outlets and political figures. The outcome of the trial could have significant implications for both Smartmatic and Newsmax, as it may set a precedent for how media outlets report on allegations of election fraud and the legal protections available to them. As the trial approaches, both parties are preparing to present their arguments in what promises to be a closely watched case.