Donald Trump Settles $15 Million Defamation Lawsuit with ABC News

Donald Trump and ABC News have reached a settlement in the defamation lawsuit the president-elect filed earlier this year.

The lawsuit stemmed from a March 2024 interview where ABC correspondent George Stephanopoulos claimed Trump had been found “liable for rape” in a civil case involving E. Jean Carroll. In reality, Trump was found liable for sexual abuse, not rape, in May 2023—a critical distinction that sparked the legal battle.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, as part of the settlement , ABC News has agreed to pay $15 million, which will go toward a presidential foundation and museum to be established in Trump’s honor. Additionally, ABC and Stephanopoulos will cover $1 million in attorney fees for Trump.

The settlement also requires ABC News to issue a public disclaimer on the original article, acknowledging the misstatement. The disclaimer will read: “ABC News and George Stephanopoulos regret statements regarding President Donald J. Trump made during an interview by George Stephanopoulos with Rep. Nancy Mace on ABC’s This Week on March 10, 2024.”

The lawsuit and its resolution come as Trump prepares for his return to the White House. This settlement not only secures financial restitution but also demands a public acknowledgment of the error—something Trump has consistently sought when it comes to protecting his reputation.

What are your thoughts on Donald Trump’s settlement with ABC News? Do you think this will set a precedent for how media outlets handle reporting on public figures? Share your thoughts in the comments below!