The legal battle between former President Trump and ABC News has taken a significant turn as a judge has ruled that the defamation lawsuit can move forward. Judge Cecilia Altonaga of United States District Court in Miami rejected ABC’s motion to dismiss the lawsuit filed by Trump against the network and anchor George Stephanopoulos.
The lawsuit stems from comments made by Stephanopoulos in March, where he falsely asserted that Trump was found “liable for rape” in a civil case. The judge stated that while a jury may find there was sufficient context in the segment, a reasonable jury could also conclude that Trump was defamed, allowing the case to proceed.
Trump celebrated the ruling on his social media platform Truth Social, calling it a “BIG WIN” against ABC Fake News and “LIDDLE’ GEORGE SLOPADOPOLUS.” He expressed hope that the courts would force the fake news media to start telling the truth.
ABC News has declined to comment on the ruling. Stephanopoulos’ comments were made during a heated exchange with Rep. Nancy Mace on his show “This Week” in March, where he questioned her endorsement of Trump in light of his legal troubles.
Stephanopoulos has remained defiant about the lawsuit, stating on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” that Trump sued him for using the word ‘rape,’ despite a judge ruling that Trump did commit sexual abuse. The legal battle continues as the case moves forward in court.
Fox News’ Joseph A. Wulfsohn contributed to this report, providing additional context to the ongoing legal saga between Trump and ABC News.
