Canada Global (Web News) ABC News has agreed to pay $15 million to settle a defamation lawsuit launched by President-elect Donald Trump over a false assertion made by the network’s anchor.
The case arose from host George Stephanopoulos’ on-air claims that Trump had been “found liable for raping” writer E Jean Carroll.
According to paperwork filed on Saturday, the network and presenter both agreed to publicly apologise for the statements made during a live This Week discussion with Representative Nancy Mace.
The deal requires ABC News to provide $15 million to a fund dedicated to “a presidential foundation and museum” for Trump. The broadcaster will pay an extra $1 million in legal expenses, according to the records.
In a high-profile legal settlement that underscores the tension between media accountability and political reputation, ABC News has agreed to pay $15 million to resolve a defamation lawsuit brought by former President Donald Trump.
The agreement, finalized this week, stems from a widely criticized on-air segment in which an ABC News anchor made inaccurate statements regarding a past sexual abuse allegation involving Trump. The segment, which aired during primetime in late 2024, suggested legal conclusions that were not supported by the facts of the case, prompting Trump and his legal team to take swift legal action.
Background of the Lawsuit
Trump filed the defamation suit in early 2025, alleging that the anchor’s remarks were “false, malicious, and defamatory,” and caused “serious damage” to his public image. The lawsuit claimed that ABC News failed to adhere to basic journalistic standards by allowing an anchor to imply Trump had been criminally convicted, when in fact, no such conviction existed.
Legal experts noted the lawsuit was unusually aggressive, even for Trump, who has frequently clashed with the media throughout his career. However, the strength of the evidence—including transcripts, video clips, and internal communications—reportedly put ABC in a legally vulnerable position.
Terms of the Settlement
As part of the settlement agreement, ABC News will pay $15 million to Trump. While the network did not formally admit fault or issue a public apology, insiders confirmed that editorial policies and review processes within the organization are being reexamined.
In a brief statement, an ABC spokesperson said:
“While we stand by the integrity of our journalism, we recognize the importance of resolving this matter and moving forward. This settlement allows us to do just that.”
Trump’s legal team celebrated the settlement as a victory for truth and accountability in media.
“This outcome sends a strong message that no one, not even major media corporations, is above the law,” said Trump attorney Alina Habba. “False reporting has real-world consequences, especially when it involves high-profile figures and sensitive allegations.”
Media and Political Impact
The $15 million settlement is among the largest publicly known defamation resolutions involving a media organization and a political figure. It follows a series of other high-profile defamation cases in recent years, including Dominion Voting Systems’ $787.5 million settlement with Fox News in 2023.
The case has reignited debate over the responsibility of news organizations in an era of fast-paced reporting and political polarization. Critics argue that sensationalism and speculation too often replace careful fact-checking in modern journalism. Others caution against powerful political figures using defamation lawsuits to chill free speech and press freedom.
“This settlement shows how delicate the balance is between holding the powerful accountable and protecting the integrity of the press,” said media law expert Jonathan Peters. “It also reflects a broader reckoning within the industry about accuracy, fairness, and the high stakes of getting it wrong.”
Trump’s Reaction
Never one to shy away from public commentary, Trump posted on Truth Social shortly after the settlement was announced:
“ABC LIED, and now they’re PAYING THE PRICE. This is what happens when you spread fake news about Trump. The TRUTH matters, and we WON!”
The former president, who continues to hint at a possible run in 2028, is expected to leverage the victory as proof of media bias and political persecution—key themes of his ongoing political narrative.
What Comes Next
While the financial aspect of the case has been resolved, industry insiders believe the ripple effects will be long-lasting. Newsrooms across the country may now face increased pressure to tighten editorial oversight and legal review processes, especially when reporting on controversial figures or sensitive legal matters.
The case also serves as a reminder of the legal exposure media companies can face in the high-stakes world of political journalism. As the 2026 midterms approach and speculation builds around the 2028 presidential race, the media’s every word is likely to be scrutinized more than ever.
