This story at a glance…

1. Trump is ramping up lawsuits against media outlets, claiming defamation.

2. A $15 million ABC settlement has fueled his efforts to pursue more cases.

3. Trump recently sued the Des Moines Register over a poll showing unfavorable results.

4. Critics warn these legal battles could chill press freedom and reshape journalism.

Trump Intensifies Legal Battles Against Media

President-elect Donald Trump has intensified his legal actions against media outlets, filing multiple defamation lawsuits and signaling plans for further challenges. Critics warn this could impact press freedom, while Trump argues the media must be held accountable.

Latest Developments
On Monday, Trump filed a defamation lawsuit against the Des Moines Register over a poll that showed him trailing in the presidential race. This comes just days after ABC settled a $15 million lawsuit with Trump.

The ABC case centered on a March 2024 interview where anchor George Stephanopoulos incorrectly stated that Trump was “liable for rape,” when he was, in fact, held liable for assault and defamation in a separate case. Legal experts have expressed surprise over ABC’s decision to settle, speculating it may have been a move to avoid further scrutiny or protracted legal battles during Trump’s return to the presidency.

At a Mar-a-Lago press conference, Trump made clear his intentions to continue pursuing defamation claims against media organizations and public figures. “It costs a lot of money to do it, but we have to straighten out the press,” he said.

A Long History of Legal Battles
Trump has a history of filing lawsuits against media companies, a trend that accelerated during his first presidential campaign. Notably, Trump and companies associated with him have taken legal action against major outlets, including CBS, The Washington Post, and CNN.

Recent examples include:

• A $10 billion lawsuit against CBS over alleged editing of a 60 Minutes interview with Vice President Kamala Harris. CBS has requested the suit be dismissed.

• A $3.8 billion defamation lawsuit filed by Trump Media & Technology Group (TMTG) against The Washington Post, claiming false reporting about securities fraud.

Despite Trump’s active litigation strategy, his record in these cases has been mixed. Courts have dismissed several high-profile lawsuits, including a $475 million defamation suit against CNN and a case against The New York Times over an op-ed.

Concerns Over Press Freedom
Press freedom advocates have expressed concern about the potential long-term impact of Trump’s legal actions on journalism. They warn that costly lawsuits—even unsuccessful ones—could create a “chilling effect,” where news outlets may avoid critical reporting for fear of litigation.

The federal standard for libel, set by the 1964 New York Times v. Sullivan case, requires proof of “actual malice” to win a defamation claim—a high legal bar to clear. However, Trump has previously suggested changes to these laws, stating his desire to make it easier to sue media companies for negative coverage.

A Broader Picture
Trump’s relationship with the media has been strained throughout his career, with thousands of lawsuits filed during his business and political life. His intensified focus on media litigation in recent months has drawn renewed attention to the balance between holding the press accountable and protecting freedom of speech.

Reflection
Proverbs 18:21 reminds us, “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” While the media plays a vital role in holding leaders accountable, we are reminded to approach all things with discernment, grace, and prayer. Let us pray for those in leadership, the press, and our nation—that truth may prevail, and God’s wisdom guide every word spoken and decision made.