Dominion’s suit exposed how Fox damages democracy with its lies

‘If Dominion really cared about serving the public’s interest, they wouldn’t have settled this case without at least the symbol of a required on-air apology.’ Photograph: Elizabeth Williams/AP

As opening arguments neared on Tuesday afternoon, even the most hardened skeptics might have found themselves thinking the impossible was actually going to happen: the corrosive lies of Fox News would go on trial, Rupert Murdoch would be forced to the witness stand, and positive societal change might result.

American democracy, which has been teetering on the brink in recent years – would be pulled back from the precipice, at least by a few crucial feet.