Trump Initiates $15 Billion Defamation Lawsuit Against The New York Times

Trump Initiates $15 Billion Defamation Lawsuit Against The New York Times

President Donald Trump has filed a defamation and libel lawsuit seeking $15 billion from The New York Times. He accuses the publication of acting as a “mouthpiece” for the Democratic Party while also making illegal campaign contributions to his political opponent Kamala Harris.

The announcement came late Monday via a post on Truth Social, detailing the lawsuit’s filing in Florida. This action adds to Trump’s ongoing legal battles with major media organizations, which have included settlements with ABC News and CBS News earlier this year.

In his statement, Trump expressed his outrage, declaring, “Today, I have the Great Honor of bringing a $15 Billion Dollar Defamation and Libel Lawsuit against The New York Times, one of the worst and most degenerate newspapers in the History of our Country. This publication has become a virtual ‘mouthpiece’ for the Radical Left Democrat Party. I see it as the largest illegal campaign contribution, EVER.” He further criticized the paper’s endorsement of Harris, claiming it is unprecedented for a major newspaper to place such support prominently on its front page.

Allegations Against The New York Times

Trump’s legal complaint alleges that The New York Times has engaged in a long-term campaign of misinformation about him, his family, his business dealings, and the broader MAGA movement.

He stated, “I am PROUD to hold this once-respected ‘rag’ accountable, as we are doing with the Fake News Networks. Our successful litigation against George Slopadopoulos of ABC/Disney and 60 Minutes/CBS/Paramount demonstrates their engagement in false smears through sophisticated document and visual alterations. Their actions constitute malicious defamation, leading to record settlements. This calculated abuse has persisted for too long, and I will not allow The New York Times to continue lying and smearing my name. The suit has been filed in the Great State of Florida. Thank you for your attention to this matter, and together, we will MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”

Details of the Lawsuit

The lawsuit has been filed in the U.S. District Court for Florida’s Middle District. Named as defendants are The New York Times Company, as well as individual reporters Susanne Craig, Russ Buettner, Peter Baker, and Michael S. Schmidt. Additionally, Penguin Random House is included for its publication of the critical book “Lucky Loser: How Donald Trump Squandered His Father’s Fortune and Created the Illusion of Success.”

Editorial Stance of The New York Times

In its endorsement for the 2024 presidential elections, The New York Times supported Kamala Harris. Historically, the editorial board has leaned sharply to the left, not endorsing a Republican candidate for the presidency since 1956. In their endorsement, the board criticized Trump and questioned his suitability for office.

The New York Times editorial board expressed, “It is hard to imagine a candidate more unworthy to serve as president of the United States than Donald Trump. He has proved himself morally unfit for an office that asks its occupant to put the good of the nation above self-interest.” This sharp criticism suggests a clear alignment with the Democratic platform.

The Broader Media Landscape

Other publications, including The Washington Post and the Los Angeles Times, exhibited similar trends. Both papers had liberal editorial boards that intended to endorse Harris but ultimately refrained after being overruled by their billionaire owners.

Next Steps and Reactions

Fox News Digital has reached out to both the White House and The New York Times for comments regarding this ongoing legal matter. As Trump’s legal team prepares to battle the esteemed publication, observers anticipate a significant impact on the relationship between Trump and the press.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates as more information becomes available.