In response, ABC News has consistently defended its editorial decisions, its anchors, and its reporting standards. While the network has faced threats of lawsuits in the past, none have materialized—until now.
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The Origins of the Clash
ABC News has often been a target of Donald Trump’s criticism, with the former president frequently accusing the network of unfair treatment and bias. The tensions reached a boiling point earlier this year when ABC’s George Stephanopoulos conducted a contentious interview with South Carolina Congresswoman Nancy Mace.
Known for her outspoken advocacy as a survivor of sexual assault, Mace’s endorsement of Donald Trump raised eyebrows, given Trump’s legal history—he had been found liable for the sexual assault of journalist E. Jean Carroll.
During the interview, Stephanopoulos pressed Mace on this apparent contradiction, stating, “You’ve endorsed Donald Trump for president. Donald Trump has been found liable for rape by a jury. Donald Trump has been found liable for defaming the victim of that rape by a jury. It’s been affirmed by a judge…”
The pointed questions sparked backlash, with Mace accusing Stephanopoulos of trying to shame her and asserting that such confrontations discourage survivors from sharing their stories.
The interview quickly became a flash point, and within days, Trump’s legal team filed a defamation lawsuit against both ABC News and Stephanopoulos. Trump alleged that the statements made during the interview were “false and defamatory” and intended to damage his reputation.
A Costly Settlement
While Stephanopoulos appeared unbothered by the lawsuit initially, ABC News soon recognized the potential risks of going to trial. According to reports, the network opted to settle rather than face a prolonged legal battle. The settlement terms were steep: $15 million was directed toward a presidential fund that will likely contribute to the construction of Trump’s future library, along with $1 million to cover Trump’s legal fees.
Additionally, ABC News issued a public apology, a rare move for the powerhouse network.
“ABC News and George Stephanopoulos regret statements regarding President Donald J. Trump made during an interview by George Stephanopoulos with Rep. Nancy Mace on ABC’s This Week on March 10, 2024,” Stephanopoulos and ABC News said in a statement.
Stephanopoulos initially appeared unthreatened by Trump’s lawsuit. He told Stephen Colbert in May, “[Mace] famously started her political career… when she was in the statehouse, talking about being a victim of rape. And so, I asked her, as a victim of rape, how she could support someone who a jury has found liable for rape.”
“Trump sued me because I used the word ‘rape,’ even though a judge said that’s in fact what did happen,” he also said.”
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A History of Controversy
This lawsuit is far from the first time ABC News and Trump have butted heads. The network has often found itself in Trump’s crosshairs, with accusations ranging from biased coverage to intentional exclusion.
George Stephanopoulos, in particular, has been a lightning rod for criticism. Earlier this year, he stirred controversy with comments about President Joe Biden’s reelection prospects, further intensifying scrutiny of his journalistic objectivity. While Stephanopoulos has defended his actions, his role in high-profile political confrontations continues to make headlines.
Looking Ahead
As Disney-owned ABC News works to rebuild its reputation, the clash with Trump underscores the ongoing tensions between the media and political figures. For viewers, it’s a stark reminder of the high stakes involved in reporting on contentious topics. Whether this settlement will deter future lawsuits or embolden others to challenge the media remains to be seen. One thing is clear: the relationship between Trump and ABC is unlikely to improve anytime soon.
Do you think ABC should have agreed to pay $15 million toward Donald Trump’s Presidential fund? Should they have settled the lawsuit or faced off in court? Share your thoughts in the comments!
