In a recent development in New York, a federal judge has upheld the defamation verdict and $83 million damages award against former President Donald Trump. The judge, Lewis Kaplan, dismissed Trump's motion for a new trial, stating that his legal arguments lack merit. This decision comes after E. Jean Carroll accused Trump of defaming her by denying her allegations of sexual assault.
Judge Kaplan's written opinion, issued on Thursday, affirmed the jury's decision to award punitive damages to Carroll, stating that it is constitutionally sound. The $83 million in damages is one of the largest ever awarded in a defamation case. The ruling marks a significant legal setback for Trump, who continues to deny the allegations made by Carroll.
Trump's legal team is now pursuing a separate appeal in an effort to challenge the verdict. The ongoing legal battle between Trump and Carroll has garnered widespread attention and raised important questions about the limits of free speech and the accountability of public figures.
The case dates back to 2019 when Carroll accused Trump of sexually assaulting her in the mid-1990s. In response, Trump denied the allegations and claimed that Carroll was lying to sell her book. Carroll then filed a defamation lawsuit against Trump, leading to the recent court ruling.
As the legal proceedings continue, the outcome of the appeal will be closely watched by legal experts and the public alike. The case highlights the complexities of defamation law and the challenges faced by individuals seeking justice against powerful figures.
