ABC News Settles Defamation Lawsuit with Trump for $15 Million
ABC News and George Stephanopoulos have reached a settlement in the defamation lawsuit filed by President-elect Donald Trump. The case stemmed from Stephanopoulos' repeated statements in a March interview that Trump was found "liable for rape," which conflicted with New York law's specification of "sexual abuse."
Key points of the settlement include:
- $15 million directed to an escrow account for a future Trump presidential library, recognized as a charitable contribution
- $1 million in legal fees covered by ABC News for Trump's representatives, Alejandro Brito and Richard Klugh
- A public statement of regret from ABC News and George Stephanopoulos
The settlement avoids further court proceedings and depositions for both parties. Judge Lewis Kaplan's clarification played a role, noting that while Trump's conduct didn't meet New York's legal definition of "rape," common usage might suggest otherwise.
This settlement adds to Trump's legal victories as he prepares to return to office in January.
The Controversy and Its Context
The lawsuit centered on Stephanopoulos' remarks during a segment with Rep. Nancy Mace on ABC's "This Week." Stephanopoulos repeatedly stated that "Donald Trump has been found liable for rape by a jury," despite the New York jury finding Trump liable for sexual abuse, not rape, in the case involving E. Jean Carroll.
This controversy highlighted the discrepancy between everyday language and legal definitions. Judge Kaplan's clarification emphasized the difference between New York's statutory language and broader linguistic use, underscoring the importance of precision in media coverage of legal matters.
"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 settlement and subsequent correction serve as a reminder of the need to align judicial verdicts with media reporting accurately. This case demonstrates the ongoing challenge of balancing public discourse with legal accuracy in our constitutional republic.

Legal Ramifications and Apology
The case exemplifies the delicate balance between journalistic interpretation and legal accuracy. U.S. Magistrate Judge Lisette M. Reid had ordered both Trump and Stephanopoulos to prepare for depositions, highlighting the high stakes both parties faced without a settlement.
ABC News initially filed a motion for summary judgment but ultimately chose to settle. This decision avoided prolonged court engagements, demonstrating an understanding that extended litigation could prove both costly and reputationally risky.
The public apology issued by ABC News and Stephanopoulos was a crucial element of the settlement. It acknowledged the journalistic responsibility to pair accuracy with analysis, particularly when covering contentious political figures.
For Trump, the settlement represents a tactical victory, reinforcing his legal campaign against media outlets he perceives as biased. ABC News, meanwhile, faces the ongoing challenge of reconciling editorial autonomy with legal obligations.
Implications for Media and Democracy
This case serves as both a roadmap and cautionary tale for media organizations, emphasizing the importance of accuracy and precision in public discourse. It raises questions about the role of media in our constitutional system and the responsibilities that come with the First Amendment's protections.
How can we ensure a free press while also maintaining the integrity of our legal system? This settlement highlights the ongoing tension between these two fundamental pillars of American democracy.

- Carroll v. Trump, No. 20-cv-7311 (S.D.N.Y. 2023)
- ABC News. Statement regarding settlement with Donald Trump. December 14, 2024.
- U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida. Trump v. ABC News et al., Case No. 1:24-cv-20912. December 14, 2024.