Trump’s Legal Setback: $5 Million Defamation Verdict in E. Jean Carroll Case Stands Firm

Donald Trump has faced a setback in his legal battles related to E. Jean Carroll, a New York writer who accused him of sexual abuse from the 1990s. Recently, a U.S. appeals court in New York upheld a jury’s decision that awarded Carroll $5 million in damages for defamation. This ruling came after the jury found that Trump had sexually abused her and later defamed her by calling her allegations a “hoax.”

Carroll’s accusations stem from an incident in a Manhattan department store dressing room. In 2023, a civil trial concluded that Trump had indeed assaulted her. The jury’s decision was significant, especially given that over two dozen women have accused Trump of sexual misconduct over the years.

Trump, who maintains his innocence, argued that the jury should not have seen the infamous 2005 Access Hollywood tape where he made lewd comments about women. That tape was a major controversy during the 2016 presidential race, yet it didn’t stop his campaign. He won the presidency, lost to Joe Biden in 2020, and returned to political prominence in 2024.

Interestingly, Carroll’s legal team was pleased with the court’s latest decision. Her lawyer, Roberta Kaplan, remarked that despite Trump’s attempts to overturn jury findings, he remains legally responsible for his actions.

In addition to the $5 million verdict for defamation, Trump is also appealing a separate $83 million jury award to Carroll for defaming her again in 2019. This appeal hinges on the argument that U.S. Supreme Court precedent should protect presidents from such liability.

Legal experts highlight that these cases reflect broader societal issues related to the treatment of sexual assault allegations, particularly against powerful figures. As discussions around accountability and justice continue, Carroll’s case could influence how future allegations are handled in the legal system.

For more on the rulings and their implications, you can read this detailed report from The Guardian.

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