Network Issues Apology for On-Air Misstatement About Trump's Legal Liability

New York, December 15, 2024 - ABC News has agreed to pay $15 million to settle a defamation lawsuit brought by Donald Trump, following inaccurate comments made by their anchor, George Stephanopoulos, on the network's "This Week" program earlier this year.

The lawsuit stemmed from an interview on March 10, where Stephanopoulos incorrectly stated that Trump had been found liable for rape in civil lawsuits filed by writer E. Jean Carroll. In reality, the courts had determined Trump liable for sexual abuse and defamation, not rape under New York law.

As part of the settlement terms, ABC News will donate $15 million to a future presidential foundation and museum for Trump. Additionally, the network will pay $1 million to cover Trump's attorney fees. An editor's note has been published on ABC's website expressing regret over the erroneous statements made by Stephanopoulos.

The settlement agreement, made public on December 14, was filed in the Southern District of Florida Federal Court. It marks a significant moment for Trump, who has a history of legal confrontations with media outlets, often with less successful outcomes than this one.

The case's resolution came one day after a federal judge had ordered both Trump and Stephanopoulos to undergo depositions, which are now unnecessary due to the settlement. This development underscores the complexities of defamation law, particularly when public figures and high-profile media personalities are involved.

ABC News, in a statement, expressed satisfaction with the resolution, saying, "We are pleased that the parties have reached an agreement to dismiss the lawsuit on the terms in the court filing." This settlement not only addresses the financial aspect but also serves as a reminder of the importance of accuracy in journalism, especially in discussions involving legal outcomes and public figures.

The incident has sparked broader conversations about media responsibility, the nuances of legal terms like "rape" versus "sexual abuse" in public discourse, and the ongoing tension between media figures and political leaders in the U.S.