E. Jean Carroll Awarded $83.3 Million in Defamation Case Against Donald Trump
E. Jean Carroll, an advice columnist, has been awarded $83.3 million by a New York jury in a defamation case against former President Donald Trump. Carroll accused Trump of sexual assault in the ’90s, and Trump responded by calling her a liar. The jury found that Trump’s comments damaged Carroll’s reputation and credibility, resulting in $65 million in punitive damages, $11 million for reputation damage, and $7.3 million in compensatory damages. Trump is expected to appeal the verdict.
Judge Ruled Trump Defamed Carroll Prior to Trial
Before the trial even began, Judge Lewis Kaplan ruled that Trump had defamed Carroll. The jury’s role was to determine the amount of compensation owed to Carroll, not to decide liability. This is the second time Trump has been ordered to pay Carroll; he was previously mandated to pay $5 million for another instance of defamation. In response, the Trump 2024 campaign issued a statement dismissing the trial as a “political weapon.”
Trump Faces Multiple Legal Challenges
The jury’s decision comes as Trump faces numerous legal challenges. He is awaiting a verdict in a civil trial that could require him to pay at least $250 million to New York state for fraudulent business practices. Additionally, he could be barred from conducting business in the state. Trump also faces 91 charges in federal and state trials, including those related to the Capitol riot on January 6th, 2021.
Carroll’s Testimony and Trump’s Defense
During the trial, Carroll testified that Trump’s comments had a devastating impact on her personal and professional life. She claimed that her reputation as a trusted media source was ruined, and she received threats and insults instead of the usual requests for advice. Trump’s lawyer argued that damages should not be attributed directly to Trump and presented social media posts that were made before Trump’s comments.
Trump’s Limited Testimony and Interference Claims
Trump took the witness stand briefly and stood by his previous deposition. He denied instructing anyone to harm Carroll and stated that he only wanted to defend himself, his family, and his presidency. Throughout the trial, Trump voiced his belief that the case was election interference and made similar claims to those he was being sued over. Judge Kaplan reprimanded him for making comments during Carroll’s testimony.
Conclusion
The jury’s verdict in favor of E. Jean Carroll highlights the impact of defamation on an individual’s reputation and credibility. Trump’s legal challenges continue to mount, with potential financial consequences and restrictions on his business activities. The outcome of these trials will have significant implications for both Trump and the Republican Party.