Another Legal Setback: Trump Loses Bid for Presidential Immunity in E Jean Carroll’s Defamation Suit
In a significant blow to former President Donald Trump, a US appeals court has ruled that he cannot claim presidential immunity in the defamation lawsuit filed by writer E Jean Carroll. The court upheld a federal judge’s decision, stating that Trump had waited too long to raise the immunity defense. Carroll accused Trump of rape and sought $10 million in damages. Stay informed on the latest developments in this high-profile case.
Trump’s Presidential Immunity Claim Rejected
In a significant blow to former President Donald Trump, the US appeals court has rejected his claim of presidential immunity in the defamation lawsuit filed by writer E Jean Carroll. The court upheld a federal judge’s decision, stating that Trump had waited too long to raise the immunity defense.
This ruling has far-reaching implications for Trump’s legal battles, as he has used the presidential immunity defense in other cases as well. It sets a precedent that a sitting president cannot use immunity to shield themselves from civil lawsuits.
Background of the Defamation Lawsuit
The defamation lawsuit was filed by writer E Jean Carroll, who accused Donald Trump of rape. She sought at least $10 million in damages for comments made by Trump in June 2019, where he denied knowing Carroll and accused her of making up the rape claim.
Carroll filed the lawsuit in November 2019, but Trump only raised the immunity defense in December 2022. The court ruled that this delay was undue and rejected his claim.
Implications for Trump’s Other Legal Cases
The rejection of Trump’s presidential immunity claim in the Carroll defamation lawsuit has significant implications for his other legal cases. Trump has used the immunity defense in his federal criminal case in Washington, where he is accused of unlawfully trying to overturn the 2020 presidential election results.
This ruling weakens Trump’s defense strategy and opens the door for accountability in his various legal battles. It signals that no one, not even a sitting president, is above the law.
Carroll’s Fight for Justice
E Jean Carroll has been steadfast in her pursuit of justice in the defamation lawsuit against Donald Trump. Despite facing immense scrutiny and backlash, she has remained resilient and determined to hold Trump accountable for his actions.
This case is not just about seeking damages, but also about shedding light on the issue of sexual assault and the importance of believing survivors. Carroll’s courage has inspired many others to come forward with their own stories.