Trump Defamation Lawsuit Against ABC Dismissed With $15 Million Settlement
In a high-profile legal battle that drew national attention, President-elect Donald Trump’s defamation lawsuit against ABC and its top anchor, George Stephanopoulos, has officially been dismissed following a $15 million settlement agreement.
The case, which stemmed from alleged defamatory statements aired by the network, was resolved through a mutual agreement before reaching trial.
Court records show that the dismissal was finalized on Monday, with Chief U.S. District Judge Cecelia Altonaga approving the settlement terms.
In her ruling, she confirmed the case was dismissed with prejudice, meaning it cannot be refiled, and stipulated that each party would cover their respective legal fees.
“Having been informed of the settlement and the parties’ agreement, the court hereby approves the stipulation,” the official filing read.
While specific details of the settlement remain confidential, sources familiar with the matter have confirmed that ABC and Stephanopoulos agreed to pay $15 million to Trump as part of the resolution. Neither side admitted fault in the agreement, a standard practice in such settlements.
The lawsuit originated from comments made on a broadcast involving Trump, which his legal team argued were false, damaging, and intended to tarnish his reputation during a critical period of his political career.
ABC and Stephanopoulos, however, defended the broadcast, citing First Amendment protections and claiming the remarks were not defamatory.
The settlement marks the end of a contentious legal dispute that highlighted ongoing tensions between Trump and major media outlets. Trump’s spokesperson praised the outcome, calling it “a victory for truth and accountability in media.”
ABC has yet to issue an official statement but is expected to continue its commitment to journalistic standards.
This case is yet another chapter in Trump’s complicated relationship with the press. While the settlement avoids further courtroom drama, it also underscores the delicate balance between freedom of the press and accountability for public statements.
For now, both sides appear eager to move forward, leaving behind a legal battle that captivated the public eye.