PAC Threatens Donors Over Defamation

In a recent legal dispute, a political action committee (PAC) and its representative, Wheeler, filed a lawsuit against Congresswoman Lauren Boebert for defamation and tortious interference. The case arose from Boebert's allegations that the plaintiffs had been dishonest. Magistrate Judge Kathryn Starnella recommended dismissing the defamation claims, citing insufficient evidence of "actual malice," which requires proof that Boebert knew her statements were false or likely false. However, the judge allowed the tortious interference claim to proceed, particularly concerning Boebert's threats of litigation against the PAC's donors. Starnella emphasized the need to balance the conflicting interests of the parties involved. The plaintiffs rely on donations to support their public interest reporting, while Boebert, as an elected official, has a significant platform and interest in protecting her reputation. The court found that the plaintiffs demonstrated a reasonable likelihood of proving that Boebert's threats against donors were improper. This determination does not guarantee the plaintiffs will ultimately prevail in court. The judge noted that threats of litigation can be deemed wrongful if made without a genuine belief in their merit or if intended to harass rather than resolve a legitimate claim. Given the PAC's substantial fundraising efforts, with the largest donation reported under $3,000, the court suggested that Boebert's threats against donors might lack seriousness, potentially undermining her position in the case.