The terms of the settlement specify that ABC will not only contribute $15 million as a charitable donation to Trump's presidential foundation but will also pay an additional $1 million towards his legal fees. Additionally, the network plans to publish a statement expressing "regret" regarding Stephanopoulos’ statements in the broadcasted interview.
The controversy traces back to a civil case in New York where a jury concluded that Trump was liable for "sexual abuse" of E Jean Carroll in 1996, while the legal definition of rape is specifically defined under New York law. This led to Judge Lewis Kaplan clarifying that despite the jury’s ruling, the term rape in this context is narrower than the common understanding of the term.
During the March broadcast, Stephanopoulos's assertions concerning Trump's legal troubles were repeatedly highlighted, including ten instances of the false claim that "judges and two separate juries have found him liable for rape." Following the case, preparations were underway for depositions with both Trump and Stephanopoulos scheduled, just before this settlement was announced.
Furthermore, Trump has been involved in multiple legal actions related to similar accusations across various media outlets including CBS and CNN, among others, suggesting a continued focus on the management of his public image and legal reputation.
This settlement marks a crucial moment for both Trump and ABC News, illustrating the complexities surrounding public statements and potential repercussions in the politically charged arena of American media and politics.
The controversy traces back to a civil case in New York where a jury concluded that Trump was liable for "sexual abuse" of E Jean Carroll in 1996, while the legal definition of rape is specifically defined under New York law. This led to Judge Lewis Kaplan clarifying that despite the jury’s ruling, the term rape in this context is narrower than the common understanding of the term.
During the March broadcast, Stephanopoulos's assertions concerning Trump's legal troubles were repeatedly highlighted, including ten instances of the false claim that "judges and two separate juries have found him liable for rape." Following the case, preparations were underway for depositions with both Trump and Stephanopoulos scheduled, just before this settlement was announced.
Furthermore, Trump has been involved in multiple legal actions related to similar accusations across various media outlets including CBS and CNN, among others, suggesting a continued focus on the management of his public image and legal reputation.
This settlement marks a crucial moment for both Trump and ABC News, illustrating the complexities surrounding public statements and potential repercussions in the politically charged arena of American media and politics.
