A federal judge has ruled that President-elect Donald Trump and ABC News host George Stephanopoulos must sit for four-hour depositions next week in a libel lawsuit Trump filed against the network. The ruling marks a significant legal development as Trump’s status as president-elect does not exempt him from being questioned under oath.
Judge Rejects Delay, Orders In-Person Depositions
U.S. Magistrate Judge Lisette Reid, based in Miami, issued the order on Friday, emphasizing that there is no reason to delay the depositions following Election Day. The court has already granted a substantial discovery period, and with the election now behind, Judge Reid sees no reason for further postponements. Trump’s deposition will take place in the Southern District of Florida, which includes Trump’s Florida residence, Mar-a-Lago.
Trump filed the lawsuit after Stephanopoulos publicly stated on air that Trump had raped writer E. Jean Carroll, who won a civil verdict against Trump for sexual abuse in 2023. However, the jury did not support Carroll’s rape claims. Following the case, a judge clarified the distinction between the legal definition of rape and its colloquial understanding, which is central to the ongoing lawsuit.
Part of a Larger Legal Strategy
This case is just one of many legal battles Trump has launched against news organizations and political adversaries since leaving the White House in 2021. His lawsuits, which often demand financial damages running into billions of dollars, provide Trump with ammunition to attack what he considers mainstream media adversaries as he gears up for his 2024 campaign.
However, these legal proceedings have a potential downside. They expose Trump to court orders for sworn testimony and the production of documents related to these cases, which could affect his public image and campaign momentum.
Will Trump Settle or Press Forward?
While Trump could choose to settle or drop these cases to avoid the depositions and other legal demands, a spokesperson confirmed last week that he intends to press forward with the lawsuits. The legal battles could remain a significant point of contention in his bid for re-election, fueling his claims of media bias and political targeting.
COMMENTS